Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira captivated the audience with an inspirational speech at the Reddam House Ballito U13 Sports Festival on Saturday.

The former Springbok prop entertained the 300 plus pupils and their parents – from across the country – with a stirring speech on sport, school and life’s lessons on day two of the tournament. Afterwards, the 2019 Rugby World Cup-winner spent time posing for photos and chatting with the star-struck audience.

Mtawarira – whose son attends Reddam Ballito – threw his support behind the junior sports festival and was greeted with chants of “Beast!” as he walked up on stage. He spoke about the value of sport and competition, and the positive effect it can have in life.

“I remember feeling liberated being out on the rugby pitch with my mates; it was special. I want to encourage everyone to get more involved in sports because it is a wonderful tool that teaches life skills, teamwork, dedication, discipline and the pursuit of excellence,” he said. “Sport also teaches you resilience because in life you face challenges, and you need to be able to deal with these challenges.”

“Beast” – the most-capped Boks prop (117 Tests) in history – told the audience of the importance sports and school played in his success.

“Sport did wonders for me. I got a scholarship to go to a school like yours and it changed my life and impacted me and my family in a big way. It afforded me the opportunity to practise and use first-class facilities that helped launch my rugby career. It’s how I got noticed by the Sharks, which eventually led to playing for the Boks,” he said.

Mtawarira urged the competitors to enjoy sports and to always carry themselves with dignity.

“Don’t take for granted the opportunities you have. Use this opportunity to be the best version of yourself. Sport is about having fun, making memories and friends. It is not just about winning. It’s about respect; it’s about staying humble in victory and gracious in defeat.”

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