Siya Kolisi Reflects On His Journey As He Reaches 100th Test For The Springboks

Springbok skipper Siya Kolisi has shared his heartfelt gratitude ahead of his milestone 100th Test appearance, calling the achievement a moment of deep pride and honour.

The flanker will join an elite group as South Africa’s ninth Test centurion when the Springboks face France at the Stade de France on Saturday night (kick-off 10:10pm).

Raised in Zwide township in the Eastern Cape, Kolisi’s rise from humble beginnings to international rugby stardom has been nothing short of inspirational. He credited his late mother, teachers, and coaches who guided and supported him throughout his journey.

Among those he thanked were former Emsengeni headmaster Eric Songwiqi, who personally drove him to matches, and Andrewe Hayidakis, who spotted his talent and offered him a scholarship to Grey Primary School.

Siya Kolisi’s Gratitude to Mentors and Coaches

Kolisi expressed particular appreciation to Vincent Mai, who funded his rugby scholarship and travelled from the United States to France to witness this career-defining moment.

He also paid tribute to Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, who appointed him captain in 2018 — a historic decision that made Kolisi the first black South African to lead the national team.

“I am very proud and honoured. I am grateful and thankful to everyone who has played a part in my life,” said Kolisi. He also recognised former coaches Heyneke Meyer, Allister Coetzee, and Jacques Nienaber for their faith and guidance throughout his career.

Kolisi reflected on his upbringing in Zwide, saying the community played a vital role in his character development.

“The people of Zwide parented me and disciplined me while my father was largely absent,” he shared. The 33-year-old added that his late grandmother, who had a profound influence on him, would have been proud to witness his 100th Test.

‘A Huge Honour to Wear the Springbok Jersey’

Despite his numerous accolades — including two Rugby World Cup titles, three Rugby Championships, and a British & Irish Lions series victory — Kolisi chose to focus on the privilege of representing South Africa.

“It’s a huge honour, not many people get to do this. But to wear it a hundred times is also super special,” he said.

“I am grateful for all my teammates from childhood to where I am today. I am super, super grateful. And I carry all those people with me when I play, with all the South Africans who expect so much because they have seen what we are capable of.”

Kolisi also emphasised the broader purpose of his success, saying their victories “allow us to have a platform for people who want to work with us so we can give back to our communities.”

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Beyond rugby, Kolisi continues to make a difference off the field as a UN ambassador for gender-based violence.

Together with his wife Rachel, he co-founded the Kolisi Foundation, which focuses on tackling inequality, promoting education, and supporting sport development in underprivileged communities.

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