Siya Kolisi highlighted the ‘power of sport’ in a heartfelt speech after the Springboks claimed the prestigious Team of the Year award at the 2020 Laureus World Sports Awards.

The Boks pipped an illustrious list of top international sporting teams to lift the award in Berlin. It’s the second time the Springboks have won the Laureus accolade – the team that lifted the 2007 Rugby World Cup were awarded the prize in early 2008.

Along with new Bok coach Jacques Nienaber and several of his teammates, Kolisi described just what it meant to collect an award of such recognition on Monday night.

‘Thanks to all the nominees, and winners, who inspired us on our journey. When [Nelson] Mandela spoke some 20 years ago about how sport has the power to unite, we felt that first hand with this group of players.

‘We come from different backgrounds, speak different languages and  all have a different challenges, but we came together for the game we love. We had one goal, fought for each other and with one main goal, we came together and gave it all we could.

‘This was not only about South Africa coming together, but also inspiring kids to live their dreams. Now kids from townships know that they can achieve their dream. We all have beautiful and inspiring stories to tell. Thank you to the academy.’

READ: Boks bag top Laureus award

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