Issued by: Minister of Sport and Recreation
03 October 1999
The Manager
The Springboks
Arthob Petersen
Murrayfield
SCOTLAND
Fax no.: 01315562691
MESSAGE OF SUPPORT FROM ALL SOUTH AFRICANS TO OUR SPRINGBOKS IN SCOTLAND
With the kick-off to our vital opening match in the World Cup against Scotland at Murrayfield only hours away, the Honourable President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki, the Minister of Sport and Recreation, Mr Ngconde Balfour and all the people of South Africa want to wish the Boks well in their final minutes of preparation.
The mood in the country is one of total loyality and expectation. After witnessing the opening ceremony at the Millennium Stadium in Wales, it is clear that South Africa and the Springboks are held in the highest esteem throughout the world. We are the team everyone wants to beat. We are the team causing the ripples at the World Cup. Of all the first round matches, most focus is on this vital clash against Scotland.
The president wishes to convey a special message to Joost van der Westhuizen and the boys - Now is the moment to prove your South African mettle; now is the moment to display how we, as South Africans, deal with adversity and challenges. This is one of the greater challenges which the team is likely to face at the World Cup. Despite the loss of one of our key players, we at home have the confidence and faith in the starting squad to come out triumphant after 80 minutes of rugby.
The greater majority of South Africans are waiting with anticipation for that kick-off. When our National Anthem is played, all of us back home will join you in singing with pride and vigour.
We believe in you. We believe you have faith in our unstinting support at home and we are confident that you will pull off one of the most memorable victories this evening.
Let South African pride ad passion drive you to victory. There are few, if any of your fellow citizens who do not believe in your ability to lead us to an opening win. Go for it boys, Do it for your country and all our people. We love you ALL.
BRING IT HOME, BOYS.
ISSUED BY THE MEDIA LIAISON DEPARTMENT OF THE MINISTRY OF SPORT AND RECREATION ON BEHALF OF:
The President of the Republic of South Africa
The Minister of Sport and Recreation
The People of South Africa
Further information can be obtained from: Graham Abrahams at cell no. 082-4532244