'Not many people gave them a chance'

REACTION: South African Rugby Union president Mark Alexander praised the resilience showed by BitzBoks at the Olympic Games in Paris, where they won the bronze medal over the weekend.

Alexander hosted the Blitzboks for a team lunch to congratulate and thank them for their effort at the Sevens tournament and wished them well on their return to South Africa later on Monday.

He said the medal it was a guiding light to all back in South Africa.

“They came here as underdogs and not many people gave them a chance,” said Alexander.

“But they proved that the South African fighting spirit is alive and well in them. They made us proud with their efforts and we want to thank the team for that.”

#REACTION: Words from a proud BlitzBoks boss Philip Snyman #rugby #news #sports #BlitzBoks @Blitzboks https://t.co/RFFKo1JK35

— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) July 29, 2024

According to Alexander, pro-active steps are being undertaken for improvements to support the team in further Olympic endeavours.

“It will also be nice to have the team back in Cape Town in December when we host the HSBC SVNS tournament.

“I am sure the crowds will come out in numbers to support our bronze medallists.”