WATCH | Springbok captain Siya Kolisi mobbed in hometown Zwide during trophy tour
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi received an overwhelming amount of love and support from his hometown, Zwide, in Port Elizabeth, during the team's trophy tour on Sunday.
The event was part of a countrywide victory celebration, after the Boks beat England to win the 2019 Rugby World Cup (RWC) in Japan on November 2.
Pictures and videos of overjoyed community members welcoming Kolisi and his team circulated on social media.
The captain was hailed as an inspiration and symbol of hope for many South Africans.
Zwide, Ibhayi. Captain Kolisi gets to lift the Webb Ellis trophy in his hometown🏆🇿🇦❤ #SpringbokChampions #BokTrophyTour pic.twitter.com/YOIPP06DV0
— Buns Out/Abuti Buns/Mr.Buns/Bhanisa/Le Bunza (@MapsMaponyane) November 10, 2019
The #SpringboksTour is at Mount Road, slowly making its way along Govan Mbeki Avenue to the next stop - Zwide where captain #SiyaKolisi was born.#BoksInTheBay
— HeraldLIVE (@HeraldPE) November 10, 2019
📹 @anne_swana pic.twitter.com/OGAyOQORiB
Stand up Zwide your champ is home #SpringboksTour #BoksInTheBay pic.twitter.com/HRhufObSWr
— HeraldLIVE (@HeraldPE) November 10, 2019
A woman from Motherwell township told SABC news that seeing Kolisi and Lukhanyo Am with the cup was reminiscent of Nelson Mandela's release from prison.
“I am happy the day we've all been waiting for has finally arrived. We've been yearning for this trophy for a long time and, at last, we've won it. Our children, Siya and Lukhanyo, brought it home. This day is reminiscent of Madiba's release from prison.”
Asked who she supported in the team, a young fan melted hearts when she said Siya. When asked who else she supported she said only Siya.
SABC reporter: So who do you support in the Boks team
— SABC News Online (@SABCNewsOnline) November 10, 2019
Fan: Siya Kolosi, the captain
SABC reporter: Who else do you support.
Fan: Siya Kolosi, only. #BoksTrophytour pic.twitter.com/aKpr9uK6MV
Another young girl told eNCA: “I want to say, Siya, you make the country happy. We want to say we love you, Siya.”
Watch this young girl's heartfelt message to #Springboks captain Siya Kolisi. Courtesy #DStv403 #eNCA #ChampionsTogether pic.twitter.com/xHOXdGgv61
— eNCA (@eNCA) November 10, 2019