It’s Rugby World Cup 2015. As a nation once divided by race, and then united in the cry of “Bokke!” – this is our mecca. Many a nation has called our passion a religion, and they aren’t far off. Our skin colour may differ, but our blood pumps green and gold.
As born and bred South Africans who rightfully teethed on Gilbert balls, our Cape Town team knows a thing or two about the game of rugby. Yet, in the build up to the RWC 2015, we visited The Springbok Experience Rugby Museum and were blown away by how much more there is to learn.
South African rugby has a long, fascinating, messy, and triumphant history and The Springbok Experience Rugby Museum captures it all. We use the word “museum” lightly as the experience is nothing like the quiet, old, dull images that might be conjured. The Springbok Experience is high-tech, modern, busy, historic, thought-provoking, moving, fun, and completely interactive.
The history walk kicks off with the birth of rugby in the Cape, stepping through the hidden story of black leagues and the dark days of apartheid, and touches down with the glory of winning the Rugby World Cup 1995 and 2007. Along the way you’ll meet key players and game changers, add to your trivia knowledge, and see just what it takes to make it to the rugby hall of fame.
But the experience isn’t just for rugby fans. Aside from interactive games that test sports skills like hand-eye co-ordination, anyone can appreciate the uniting force of sport. The experience is an incredible testament to Danie Craven’s statement that “We can change South Africa on the rugby field”.
Visitor info:
Address: Portswood House, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Opening hours: Daily, 10h00 to 18h00 (except Christmas Day) with last entry to Museum gallery at 17h30.
Tel: 021 418 4741
E-mail: springbokexperience@sarugby.co.za
Twitter: @Bokmuseum
Ticket Prices:
- R70 for adults
- R50 for scholars (6 – 18 years) and pensioners (60+)
- Free for children 5 years and under
- R210 for family of 4 (R40 for every additional child)
- Groups of 20+ by prior arrangement only
If you love the power of sport, we can help you plan a Faculty-led sport focused program, or you can get involved in our local Sports Development Service learning projects.
