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Live coverage of Springbok Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus receiving his honorary doctorate from North-West University.
02 May 11:39
Rassie is officially Doc Erasmus!
Awie Kotze, the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, was tasked with speaking to Erasmus' achievement and awarding him with his honorary doctorate.
In discussing Erasmus' playing and coaching career in detail, Kotze
"Erasmus has shown himself to be a nation builder of whom the country can be proud," said Kotze.
"He embodies the principles of resilience, determination and team-work that we at NWU hold dear. His contributions to South Africa, both as a rugby strategist and a nation builder, serve as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, dedication and visionary leadership come together."
Erasmus was awarded his honorary doctorate in Coaching Science, and he was presented with a NWU Eagles Varsity Cup jersey.
02 May 11:25
Rassie arrives!
After Kolisi had brought the house down, Erasmus then arrived at the venue.
Dressed in a red grown over his Bok blazer and graduation cap, it was certainly a different look for Erasmus, but that didn't stop the fans cheering his name and giving him a hero's welcome.
Rassie shook hands with students in attendance.
02 May 11:17
Siya is here!
There was also a surprise for the hundreds of students and fans who had filled the university's grounds before the ceremony when Springbok captain Siya Kolisi arrived carrying the World Cup trophy.
Fans cheered euphorically for Kolisi as he signed autographs wearing his Springbok blazer.
"Siya, Siya, Siya!" the crowd roared.
02 May 11:12
Call me Dr Erasmus!
Earlier this morning, hundreds of fans had gathered at NWU to welcome Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus.
Erasmus received an honorary doctorate in coaching science.
This followed a formal request by the tertiary institution's faculty of health sciences, which wasted little time clamouring for his recognition after the national rugby team won consecutive World Cup titles last year.
The NWU council approved the decision as early as 16 November last year, mere weeks after South Africa beat the All Blacks 12-11 in a white-knuckle World Cup final in Paris.
