Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus is poised to be awarded an honorary doctorate from North-West University (NWU). Erasmus has emerged as a beloved figure in South African sports, guiding the Springboks to consecutive World Cup victories as both coach and director of rugby. Additionally, he oversaw a successful British & Irish Lions series triumph in 2021. Now back as head coach of the Springboks under a new contract, Erasmus will lead the team to the Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2027. The 51-year-old is set to receive a new honor as NWU prepares to confer upon him an honorary doctorate. NWU announced that Erasmus will be recognized for his innovative and exceptional management of the Springboks during their victorious 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup campaigns. Additionally, his prominent standing in the international rugby coaching arena, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and dedication to social responsibility are acknowledged. The university also praised Erasmus for his unwavering commitment to the Sport Transformation Charter, contributing to systematic changes in talent and skill development across South Africa’s rugby landscape. Expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him by SA Rugby’s leadership, Erasmus highlighted the transition back to the head coach role after serving as Director of Rugby for the past four years. He emphasized the focus on building player depth and expressed excitement about the upcoming Test season, which includes matches against Ireland, Portugal, New Zealand, and Argentina.
