The longest serving captain in Springbok rugby history gives a revealing account of the simultaneous joys and travails of one of the most challenging - and rewarding - jobs in sport in this much anticipated autobiography. The genial, jovial and witty Rugby World Cup-winning captain explains how a tubby kid from Pietersburg with dreams of winning Wimbledon grew into his country's most successful rugby captain. Smit, renowned for his honesty and humility, gives an eyebrow-raising account of the ambushes awaiting rugby ...
Read More
The longest serving captain in Springbok rugby history gives a revealing account of the simultaneous joys and travails of one of the most challenging - and rewarding - jobs in sport in this much anticipated autobiography. The genial, jovial and witty Rugby World Cup-winning captain explains how a tubby kid from Pietersburg with dreams of winning Wimbledon grew into his country's most successful rugby captain. Smit, renowned for his honesty and humility, gives an eyebrow-raising account of the ambushes awaiting rugby celebrities in this country and offers the secret to his longevity in a sport that eats the naive and gullible for breakfast. Besides Coach, Springbok Captain must be the most unforgiving job in South Africa. John William Smit is undeniably the most successful Springbok captain in history. Born in Pietersburg (Polokwane) South Africa on 3 April 1978, he was educated at the prestigious Pretoria Boys High school where he matriculated in 1996. At PBH school he played for the schools first team from 1994 to 1996. It was also at PBH where his leadership abilities was first noticed when he was made head prefect in 1996. Smith made his debut for South Africa on June 10, 2000 at the age of 22 against Canada. On Saturday June 7, 2008 he played in his 76th test (vs Wales) which also was his 50th as captain. As of 2005 Smit is one of South Africa's most successful captains ever, having led the Springboks to victory in 16 of the 22 games that he captained, a win percentage of 72%.[citation needed] This makes him just as successful as other South African captains such as Gary Teichmann and Francois Pienaar. Together with Jake White he lead South Africa to their second William Webb Ellis trophy on October 20, 2007. With predecessors like Francois Pienaar, Gary Teichman and Morne Du Plessis to name but a few, it is a mark of a great sportsman and a remarkable leader to be acknowledged as the best captain to ever lead the Springboks. Smit's leadership qualities came to the fore in the 2007 Rugby World Cup, his calm under pressure and inspirational captaincy seeing South Africa win the William Web Ellis Trophy for the second time. Smit led South Africa in the 2008 Tri Nations against Australia and New Zealand. In the first game against New Zealand in Wellington, he was spear tackled by New Zealand lock Brad Thorn who was suspended for one game. He missed the rest of the 2008 Tri-Nations because of a groin injury and veteran Springbok lock, Victor Matfield, led the side.
Read Less
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Simply Brit – welcome to our online used book store, where affordability meets great quality. Dive into a world of captivating reads without breaking the bank. We take pride in offering a wide selection of used books, from classics to hidden gems, ensuring there's something for every literary palate. All orders are shipped within 24 hours and our lightning fast-delivery within 48 hours coupled with our prompt customer service ensures a smooth journey from ordering to delivery. Discover the joy of reading with us, your trusted source for affordable books that do not compromise on quality.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very Good. The book is shelf rubbed and a tad marked. The protective plastic layer is beginning to peel away from the edges of the cover. The title page contains a previous owners inscription in black ink but there are no other markings internally; the pages are pristine and complete. Overall a well cared for and excellently bound book.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very Good. Signed by Author(s)the wraps are bit edge worn and shelf rubbed. creased. Signed by John Smit. a bit marked. a bit cocked. internally clean and tightly bound. [P.K. ]
