Johannesburg – “Because of this, I am here. During a 60 Minutes segment aired over the weekend, Siya Kolisi responded to a question about his role in improving the people of South Africa as Springbok captain by saying, “That is my goal.”
America’s oldest, most-watched, and arguably most prestigious news magazine television show followed the Bok captain during the recent three-match Test series against Wales; and in a candid interview asked the 31-year-old about transformation within the sport, his early life in Zwide in the Eastern Cape, and how he stays mentally fit.
Kolisi told Jon Wertheim about his upbringing, “I had no toys because I couldn’t afford them.”
“What did I do?
“I discovered a brick, which was my automobile. I cherished the brick with all my heart… That was all that I had.
“How can we use this chance to benefit not just ourselves, but also others in our country?” Siya Kolisi explains to @jon wertheim how South Africa has benefited from its sporting achievements. https://t.co/mVBR6y2kg0 image: https://t.co/Rr43DcH27O
— 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) 3 October 2022
Kolisi also emphasized the significance of discovering rugby and playing for African Bombers at Dan Qeqe Stadium in his youth, before to being spotted and offered a scholarship to play for Grey High School in Gqeberha.
“This place,” Kolisi said of Dan Qeqe Satdium, “if it wasn’t here, if there wasn’t a team, if there wasn’t sport and the community, I have no idea where I would have ended up… It gave me inspiration and taught me who I am.”
In addition to utilizing the extensive rugby knowledge of Francois Pienaar and Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira, the documentary explores Kolisi’s marriage to Rachel, his family, and the foundation the couple manages.
Nonetheless, Kolisi’s candid evaluation of mental illness was possibly the most enlightening aspect of the presentation.
Regarding this particular struggle, Kolisi remarked, “At times, my head grew.”
“I spent the money on sports cars, drinking every weekend, spending money with pals, and engaging in activities for which I would never be proud. I wish to improve and gain knowledge.
“I go counseling and get to converse with someone. It helps me recover and improves my health.
“If you are emotionally or mentally ill, therapy is your treatment.
“I want to be a man of the generation of black men who are present for their children and who demonstrate their love for their wives through both words and deeds.”
Kolisi is presently taking a break from rugby and has been photographed in England mingling with coaches and players from Liverpool football club. However, the Boks will soon return to camp to prepare for a massive End-of-Year tour against Ireland, France, Italy, and England.