Siya Kolisi Springbok captain

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has signed thousands – if not more – of autographs in his life. ©Gavin Barker/BackpagePix

Siya Kolisi’s autobiography ‘Rise’ hits the shelves

Springbok 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning captain Siya Kolisi’s autobiography, titled Rise, has been launched.

Siya Kolisi Springbok captain

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has signed thousands – if not more – of autographs in his life. ©Gavin Barker/BackpagePix

Springbok 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning captain Siya Kolisi’s autobiography, titled Rise, has been launched.

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Kolisi shares his personal story in an intimate memoir which has hit the shelves in all leading bookstores around the world.

Rise is not just a look back at Kolisi’s extraordinary career, but an inspirational reminder that it is possible to defy the odds, no matter how they are stacked against you.

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“Today is an incredibly special day for me and my family, I am so excited to finally share my story, the real story, with the world. I wanted to share my story in my own words; from the extreme poverty I experienced along with so many in my community, to what has made me the man I am today. Through my own rise, I hope I can show people in South Africa and around the world – of every colour, gender and spiritual belief – that anything is possible,” Kolisi said.

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The title Rise was inspired by Siya Kolisi’s mother, Phakama, which translates to the book’s name, as well as a celebration of his Xhosa heritage.

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Speaking on the significant accomplishment, Roc Nation Sports International President, Michael Yormark said: “This is a huge and significant moment of Siya’s life. We are so proud of Siya’s journey and the impact his story has made on the lives of many all over the world, we are excited for him to finally share it in his own words. Rise is more than just a book, it is a source of inspiration, motivation and hope.”

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Leading the list of praise, England and Saracens lock Maro Itoje said: “There is no doubt Siya has made a significant impact on World rugby, especially within South African rugby. Being the first Black player to captain the Springboks is a significant achievement and I am sure he has had to navigate tricky waters both personally and publicly in carrying out that task. Siya is passionate about changing people’s lives for the better and uses his position and status to do that.”

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England and Manchester United soccer star Marcus Rashford said: “Siya’s rise from humble beginnings to lifting that World Cup trophy is the stuff of fairytales.”

South African comedian and The Daily Show host, Trevor Noah, was full of praise for Kolisi’s journey: “Few people embody the tenacity of what the new South Africa stands for like Siya does. His story mirrors the nation’s in its trials and tribulations, and also in its triumph against all odds. This is a real life hero’s journey.”

* The book is available at all leading bookstores in South Africa and the UK and is available on Amazon online for order.