GALLERY: Boks off with a bang

Montecasino hosted the Springbok send-off on 11 September. Hundreds of fans came to see the team and participate in an afternoon of entertainment before the Springboks left for OR Tambo International Airport.

The Springboks flew to London later in the evening for the upcoming 2015 Rugby World Cup.

The ceremony was filled with festivity with a good turnout of fans. The proceedings included musical performances from Lloyd Cele, HHP as well as PJ Powers. The crowd was also met with speeches from the deputy president of the South African Rugby Union (SARU), Mark Alexander and a powerful motivational speech from Minister of Sport and Recreation, Fikile Mbalula.

Finally, after a heartfelt promise to the nation that the team was playing for the hopes of a nation rather than a simple cup, delivered by captain Jean de Villiers, the team departed slowly as they signed autographs and took photos with fans.

In a short interview after the ceremony, Springbok coach, Heyneke Meyer expressed some of his feelings. “It’s an amazing experience, it’s probably one of the best days of my life. I always knew the people were passionate about the Boks but to see this happening makes you feel humble and brings tears to your eyes. On the other hand it puts extra pressure on the coach because you know you have to perform. I’m very proud to be a South African today. I’m very proud of our people and we have to go out there and win and make the country proud,” he said.

The Springboks will play their first match on 19 September against Japan.