Why South Africa Are Called the Springboks 

The Springbok name has become synonymous with South African rugby. You simply don’t refer to South Africa as South Africa in the rugby world. You refer to the players as the Springboks. This goes for commentators and fans alike at the Rugby World Cup, the Nations Championship, the Rugby Championship, or international Tests.  

But why are South Africa called the Springboks? Where did the nickname come from, and what does it actually represent? 

The answer is a century old and is deeply connected to South Africa’s history, identity, and one of Africa’s most recognisable animals – the Springbok. So, let’s jump right into everything you need to know about the players in green and gold and what their symbol represents.  

What Is the Springbok Nickname? 

The Springbok nickname refers to South Africa’s national men’s rugby union team. Not only this, but it refers to any rugby team in South Africa. The women’s rugby team are known as the Springbok Women and the U20 teams are referred to as the Junior Springboks.  

So, instead of competing under the name South Africa, national rugby teams are known around the world as the Springboks, or Boks for short. This name has become synonymous with world-class rugby and sporting excellence.  

The actual symbol is a springbok antelope, a fast-moving animal found in southern Africa. Today, this symbol and the nickname are recognised instantly by rugby fans, as is the famous green and gold jersey.  

Why Are South Africa Called the Springboks?  

The ‘Springbok’ nickname dates back to 1906 when South Africa went on their first overseas rugby tour. At the time, the team wore white uniforms with no emblem. They also had no nickname, which was uncommon in the world of rugby.  

Captain Paul Roos was concerned what nickname would be given to them by the British press. So, he, along with HJ Carolin and John Cecil Carden, chose “Springboks”, an anglicised version of the Afrikaans word “Springbokken”. This was chosen to represent South Africa’s national animal, the springbok antelope.  

This symbol stands for speed, agility, strength, endurance, and determination. This represented what the South African side would become, winning four Rugby World Cups and currently ranking number one in the world.  

At the same time as the adoption of the Springbok nickname, South Africa adopted green and gold as their rugby colours. The nickname quickly gained popularity in Britain and South Africa. And now, 120 years later, it is the most recognisable team name in international rugby.  

The Springbok and the Protea 

So, if everyone agrees that the Springbok is the official symbol of South Africa’s rugby team, then why is there also a protea on the rugby jersey?  

The answer is fairly simple. After South Africa returned to the world of international sport after apartheid, the country introduced the Protea as the official emblem of national sports. Take a look at Bafana Bafana (soccer) or the Proteas (cricket) and you’ll see the symbol on their uniforms.  

But, because of the deep connection that the Springbok has with rugby, it was decided to keep the emblem. The Protea was then also introduced to represent the new democratic identity of South Africa.  

Today, the Protea and the Springbok appear on the front of the team’s rugby jersey. Together, these symbols represent both South Africa’s rugby heritage and its future.  

What Does the Springbok Name Represent? 

The Springbok name represents so much more than a jumping buck. Today, it represents national pride, rugby excellence, unity, and sporting tradition. Every player selected to wear the Springbok jersey becomes part of the legacy that is within the team’s name.  

Legends have worn this jersey with pride. These legends include Francois Pienaar, Joost van der Westhuizen, John Smit, Victor Matfield, Bryan Habana, Schalk Burger, Siya Kolisi, and Eben Etzebeth. Each has helped shape the reputation that makes the Springbok nickname respected in the world of rugby today.  

Why the Springbok Nickname Still Matters 

It has been 120 years of the Springboks. 120 years of rugby excellence. 120 years of being one of the most respected teams in world sport. Throughout this time, the Springbok nickname has remained. It has become one with success, determination, resilience, and passion. 

From its origins in 1906 to becoming four-time World Cup winners, the Springbok has become a symbol recognised by fans, commentators, and haters around the world. Regardless of if you are new to rugby or a lifelong fan, understanding why the Springboks are called the Springboks provides a greater understanding of one of rugby’s greatest traditions.  

So, with the Springboks continuously competing, you can always bet on rugby with bet.co.za.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Why are South Africa called the Springboks? 

South Africa adopted the Springbok nickname during its 1906 rugby tour of Britain. Captain Paul Roos selected the name before British newspapers could create one for the team. 

What does the Springbok nickname mean? 

The nickname represents speed, determination, endurance, resilience, and national pride, all inspired by the springbok antelope. 

Why do the Springboks wear a Protea? 

The Protea is South Africa’s official national sporting emblem. Modern Springbok jerseys feature both the Protea and the historic Springbok emblem to reflect the country’s heritage and unity. 

How old is the Springbok nickname? 

The nickname has been used continuously since 1906, making it more than a century old. 

Is the Springbok only used for rugby? 

Today, the Springbok emblem is most closely associated with South Africa’s national rugby team, while most other South African national sports teams compete under the Protea emblem.