“Behind every successful man is a woman,” goes the popular phrase, and in the case of Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, there are several supporting ladies.
The twice-winning Rugby World Cup champion was conferred with an honorary doctorate this week for his contribution to the sporting sector and towards nation-building. Recognised as a sporting hero to the world, to his nearest and dearest, he is a loving husband, son, and doting dad.
RASSIE MENTIONS MOM IN ACCEPTANCE SPEECH
On Thursday, 2 May, Rassie Erasmus was conferred with an honorary doctorate in the discipline of Coaching Science from the Council of the North-West University.
The university revealed that the twice-winning Rugby World Cup hero would be honoured for his contribution to sport and as a nation builder who “serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, dedication and visionary leadership come together.”.
Awie Kotze, the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, said during the presentation: “This esteemed recognition is not only well-deserved but also a testament to the remarkable contributions and exceptional impact Rassie has made in the field of sport and management.”
During the ceremony, the Springbok coach appeared visibly emotional as he likely took in the proud moment.
Admitting that he was “nervous,” “intimidated,” and “scared,” Rassie revealed that he had been comforted by the words of his elderly mother.
He said: “She is watching it on livestream at the old-age home. The message that she sent me was emotional.”
In September last year, Rassie sent a special message to his mother on her birthday.
Breaking away from his tough-as-nails persona, the Springboks coach tweeted alongside pics of his biggest fan: “Lief vir Ma (Love you mom) Happy 83rd [birthday]”.
MEET THE WOMEN IN HIS LIFE
According to Rugby World, Rassie Erasmus is married to Nicolene, who is a former nurse.
The couple have been married for over 20 years and are parents to three daughters, twins Nikki and Carli, and a younger child, Janie.
The twins are students of the University of Stellenbosch and are also netball coaches. Nikki is also a rugby WAG, dating Stormers player Andre-Hugo Venter, whose dad was also a Springbok.
Images via Odd ANDERSEN, AFP/ Twitter: @rassierugby
In January 2022, his daughters posted a clip of them “thanking” World Rugby for unbanning their dad following a social media rant.
“Honestly, we are so tired of him. I think we’ve all received enough life lessons. I think it’s enough, and it’s time for him to go back”.
Watch the hilarious clip below…
Rassie Erasmus is heading back to work! He’s given us one last hilarious video on Twitter. This time, his daughters have their say.
Posted by SA Rugga Fans on Sunday, 16 January 2022
