Watch: St Mary’s learner’s Springbok mascot dreams come true
St Mary's DSG Grade Five learner, Sia Kassanjee (11) was chosen to run out with the Springboks ahead of their match against Argentina and shares her experience which she describes as one of the best days of her life.
THE Highway’s 11-year-old Sia Kassanjee had the experience of a lifetime when she was selected to run out with the Springboks ahead of their match against Argentina on September 27.
Sia was chosen from 11 000 entries in a Spur competition. She and fellow winner Leah Beukes from Cape Town were the lucky mascots selected to accompany the national team onto the field.
Bursting with excitement, the Grade Five learner at St Mary’s DSG described the moment as one of the best days of her life.
“I got to meet Siya Kolisi and the whole Springbok team. My heart was racing as I held Siya Kolisi’s hand, they were huge and I felt like a tiny tot next to them. The crowd erupted with excitement as we emerged from the tunnel, the fireworks lit up the entire field,” said Sia with excitement.
Also read: GALLERY: Durban welcomes Springboks with sea of green-and-gold
“My proudest moment had finally arrived, my heart skipped a beat as I stood arm in arm with Siya Kolisi, singing the national anthem. The crowd was loud but his voice was louder, I could hear his booming voice as he looked up at the sky and sang passionately.”
As part of the prize, Spur also gifted the young mascots and their families full VIP tickets to enjoy the match in style.
“I feel so lucky to have celebrated this special moment with my family,” said Sia.
After the game, Sia had her book signed by Kolisi and also got to meet one of her other heroes, the Springbok Women’s captain.
“I told Spur I would bring good luck to the Bokke and what a lucky charm I was!”
Sia left a message for Spur ahead of the next Rugby World Cup:
“Something to keep in mind before 2027, I travel light!”
@caxtonlocalmedia Hillcrest’s Sia Kassanjee was one of two lucky mascots chosen from over 11 000 entries to accompany the Springboks onto the field in the game against Argentina. #highwaymail #springboksupporter🇿🇦 #springboksmascot #springboks ♬ original sound – caxtonlocalmedia
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