World Cup-winning captain John Smit has been appointed as a board member of the South African Rugby Legends Association.

The association’s primary objectives are to develop the game at grassroots level and ensure the best ongoing support for local legends.

Smit won 111 Test caps before he retired in 2011. As Springbok captain, he led the side to two Tri-Nations titles in 2004 and 2009, the World Cup title in 2007 and a series win over the British & Irish Lions in 2009.

‘As athletes, when our careers come to a close, we dream of leaving a legacy,’ Smit said. ‘My rugby career has been truly rewarding, shaping me into the man I am today and it is my dream to give back in any way that I can.’

Sarla CEO Stefan Terblanche welcomed Smit’s appointment, saying: ‘John is already contributing so much to the promotion of this amazing game, he is deeply committed to our transformation objectives and we believe that his appointment to the Sarla board is the start of further great things to come.’ 

Photo: Supplied