It’s Dr Rassie Erasmus to you

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus is now officially a doctor. On Thursday, the 51-year old was awarded an honorary doctorate by the North-West University for his contribution to rugby.

Dr Johan “Rassie” Erasmus 🫡 pic.twitter.com/ClUSfU9GSI

— Buhle Madulini (@Buhlemadulini) May 2, 2024

The back-to-back Rugby World Cup winning coach was awarded the honour in the discipline of Coaching Science after he led the Springboks to two consecutive world cup triumphs, which also saw South Africa become the first country to win for world cup tournaments.

NWU students lined up outside the auditorium and were rewarded for their patience when Springbok Captain Siya Kolisi walked past them, with the William Webb Ellis in his hands.

Kolisi took pictures with the students and signed autographs before Erasmus also graced the occasion.

pic.twitter.com/Nx682qHA63

— Buhle Madulini (@Buhlemadulini) May 2, 2024

During the ceremony, an emotional Erasmus listened to his extensive CV being read out on the stage.

The Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Awie Kotze, lauded the Eastern Cape-born former Springbok as a nation-builder who revolutionised coaching sciences with several groundbreaking concepts such as the infamous ‘Bomb Squad’ and the 7-1 bench split.

In making the decision last year, council chairperson Bert Sorgdrager said Erasmus embodied the principles of resilience, determination and teamwork that the North-West University holds dear in their educational mission.

“His commitment to inclusivity and transformation in sport has not only revitalised rugby but has served as a powerful symbol of reconciliation and unity in a nation with a complex history. Under his guidance, the Springboks not only achieved rugby greatness but also became a unifying force, bringing together people of all backgrounds and beliefs,” he said.

Meanwhile, Erasmus’ Springboks will take to the field for the first time since their World Cup triumph in France on June 22, with the jury still out on whether Kolisi will continue to captain the side.