Heavyweight broadcaster Robert Marawa, the voice of sports media in South Africa, celebrates 49th birthday
Boxing
Who is Siya Kolisi? Everything you need to know about the Springboks' captain
Kenneth Mwenda
February 18, 2024 at 2:41 PM
Siya Kolisi, the revered captain of the South African national rugby team, the Springboks, has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and leadership both on and off the rugby field. His journey from the impoverished streets of Zwide, Port Elizabeth, to the pinnacle of international rugby is a story of triumph against the odds.
Source: Getty Images
This article delves into the life of Siya Kolisi, providing a comprehensive look at his age, educational background, personal life, net worth, and more. The details have been meticulously gathered from credible sources to ensure an accurate and comprehensive portrayal of his impact on and off the rugby field.
Profile summary
Full name | Siyamthanda Kolisi |
Date of birth | June 16, 1991 |
Place of birth | Zwide, Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa |
Height | 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in) |
Weight | 99 kg (218 lbs) |
Position | Flanker |
Current team | Racing 92 |
Previous teams | Western Province, Stormers, Sharks |
International debut | June 15, 2013, against Scotland |
Captaincy | First black captain of the South African national team, appointed in 2018 |
World Cup achievements | Captained South Africa to victory in the 2019 Rugby World Cup; part of the team for the 2015 World Cup (bronze medalist) and the victorious 2023 squad |
Education | Attended Grey High School, Port Elizabeth, on a rugby scholarship |
Marital status | Married to Rachel Smith in 2016 |
Children | Two; a son, Nicholas Siyamthanda (born 2015), and a daughter, Keziah (born 2017) |
Philanthropy | Co-founder of the Kolisi Foundation, aimed at supporting people affected by poverty in South Africa |
Social media |
How old is Siya Kolisi?
Siya Kolisi was born on June 16, 1991, in Port Elizabeth, South Africa (aged 32 years as of February 2024). Siya Kolisi’s age is a testament to what one can achieve at a relatively young age. He has accomplished feats that many athletes only dream of, including leading his team twice to a Rugby World Cup victory.
Early life
Raised in the Zwide township of iBhayi, Port Elizabeth, Siya Kolisi experienced early life challenges, including the loss of his mother, Phakama, at the tender age of 15—she was only 16 at his birth, and his father, Fezakele, was still in school.
Kolisi's grandmother, Nolulamile, took on the responsibility of raising him after his mother’s passing. He recalls:
“Times were tough when I was little and often there was no food. I would go to bed starving, Sometimes we did not have enough money to pay my primary school fees, which were only R50 ($3.7) a year.”
Miralem Pjanic: wife, salary, contract, Instagram, religion, net worth
Football
What did Siya Kolisi study?
Kolisi’s rugby talent became apparent at just 12 years old during a youth tournament in Mossel Bay, leading to a scholarship at Grey Junior in Port Elizabeth. This opportunity paved the way for further development at Grey High School, an institution also known for nurturing talents like South African cricketer Graeme Pollock and England International Mike Catt.
Siya Kolisi’s rugby career
Source: Original
Siya Kolisi launched his senior career with Western Province in the 2011 Vodacom Cup, quickly establishing himself as a key player. By 2012, he had joined the Stormers, making a significant impact despite a thumb injury that limited his playtime.
His performance earned him international recognition, leading to his Springbok debut in 2013 against Scotland, where he was named Man of the Match. Kolisi’s leadership qualities were recognized when he was appointed Stormers captain in 2017 and made history in 2018 as the Springboks’ first black captain. His tenure with the Sharks began in 2021, further cementing his rugby legacy.
Tobi Amusan's bio: parents, age, coach, height, cash prize, WORLD RECORD
Athletics
On the international front, Kolisi represented South Africa in the under-20 side at the IRB Junior World Championships in 2010 and 2011. He also participated in two matches for South Africa during the 2015 Rugby World Cup, competing against Japan and Samoa.
How many World Cups has he won?
Siya Kolisi has won two World Cups, both of which he captained. He played a pivotal role in South Africa’s 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup victories, becoming the first black captain to lead the team to a World Cup win in 2019.
After their second consecutive World Cup triumph, Captain Siya Kolisi expressed that South Africa’s victory has the potential to bring the country together following a thrilling 12-11 win over New Zealand in the final. “We are the last line of defence,” Kolisi commented to ITV Sport, pointing out the various issues plaguing their nation.
Kaka's net worth, achievements, house, cars, religion, what is he doing now?
Football
Siya Kolisi’s awards
Source: Getty Images
His contributions to rugby and his groundbreaking captaincy have been celebrated as monumental moments in South African sports history. Highlighted among his significant achievements are the following honours:
- Winner of the bronze medal as a third-place finisher in the 2015 Rugby World Cup
- Led the team to victory in the 2019 Rugby Championship as the captain
- Captained the South African team to win the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan
- Guided the team to success in the 2021 British and Irish Lions Series Tour as the captain
- Emerged victorious as the captain in the 2023 Qatar Airways Cup at Twickenham against New Zealand
- Led the team as captain to triumph in the 2023 Rugby World Cup
“Rise” is not only a word that encapsulates Siya Kolisi’s journey but also the title of his autobiography, “Rise,” where he shares his inspiring life story. The book details his early life challenges, his rise through the ranks of rugby, and his role in uniting a nation through sport.
Who is Xavi Hernandez? All the details and facts on one of the greatest midfielders ever
Football
Siya Kolisi's height and weight
Physical fitness is crucial in rugby, and Siya Kolisi’s height and weight are a testament to his dedication to staying in peak condition. He stands 1.88 metres (6 feet 2 inches) tall and weighs approximately 99 kg (218 pounds).
On the field, Siya Kolisi shines in the position of flanker, also known as a loose forward. His role is crucial to the team’s defence and offence, requiring speed, strength, and strategic thinking.
Was Siya Kolisi married before?
Source: Getty Images
Siya Kolisi’s personal life, particularly his marriage, has been of interest to many of his fans. He married Rachel Smith in 2016, and there is no public record of him being married before. The couple’s relationship and their joint efforts in philanthropy have captured the hearts of people in South Africa and around the globe.
Rachel Kolisi, née Smith, is not only Siya Kolisi’s wife but also his partner in various philanthropic activities. Born on January 21, 1990, she is a former marketing executive and now a full-time mother and social media influencer.
What happened to Dele Alli? How the Englishman went from hero to zero
Football
Rachel Smith was born in Grahamstown - around 80 miles from Port Elizabeth. Together, they have two children, and their family story is one of love, resilience, and teamwork.
Who are Siya Kolisi’s kids and siblings?
Siya and Rachel Kolisi have two children: a son named Nicholas Siyamthanda, born in 2015, and a daughter named Keziah. Additionally, Siya’s younger half-siblings, Liyema and Liphelo, who share the same mother as Siya and lost her in 2009, have been living with the Kolisi family since 2014 following periods in orphanages and foster care.
For fans looking to get a closer look at Siya Kolisi’s life beyond the rugby field, his Instagram account is a treasure trove of insights. Through his posts, Kolisi shares glimpses of his family life, training routines, philanthropic efforts, and personal moments.
Siya Kolisi's net worth
Source: Getty Images
Siya Kolisi’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of $6 million to $10 million. His financial income is primarily derived from his professional rugby union career, alongside endorsements and various other income streams.
Udonis Haslem's net worth: How much is the recently retired Miami Heat player worth today?
NBA
How much is Siya Kolisi's salary?
It is projected that Kolisi’s annual earnings exceed $1 million, encompassing his salaries from his tenure with Western Province, the Stormers, and his contributions to the South African national rugby team. Nonetheless, fluctuations in his salary may occur based on performance, bonuses, and other contributing factors.
For the period 2023 to 2024, while playing for Racing 92, his salary is estimated at around $1.02 million. Kolisi has also garnered interest from prominent brands, leading to significant endorsement contracts. Notable partnerships he has engaged in include collaborations with brands such as Jay-Z’s Roc Nation Sports, MTN, Adidas, and Land Rover.
Final words
Siya Kolisi’s story is one of overcoming adversity, inspiring leadership, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. From the township of Zwide to the world stage, his journey is a reminder of the power of sport to change lives and unite people. As the captain of the Springboks, Kolisi continues to lead by example, making his mark as one of the greatest rugby players of his generation.
Who is Dejounte Murray’s wife? All you need to know about Jania Meshell
NBA
READ ALSO: Which are the most famous sports in South Africa? A detailed list
Sports Brief published an article about the most famous sports in South Africa. Sports in South Africa are an integral part of the nation’s culture, heritage, and identity, weaving together a tapestry of passion, unity, and excellence.
From the lush green fields of cricket and rugby to the energetic courts of netball and basketball, the diversity of sports in the country reflects the vibrant and dynamic nature of its people. Click the above link to read more!
Trending news
