Defeat

This book is the dazzling story of a black kid from South Africa, born on the last day of apartheid in the township of Zwide, who would nevertheless lead the South African rugby team 28 years later. South to the world title.    The first black captain of the Springboks, Siya Kolisi recounts with candor and humility his rise, a childhood marked by violence and hunger, where sport is a deliverance, bringing him what his home lacks: a role, rules and trust. But it’s rugby that will save him.    In this autobiography of extraordinary intimacy, Siya hides nothing of the pitfalls he had to overcome, the shortcomings he had to overcome, the discipline he had to forge in order to rise in each of the teams that welcomed him, from the cadets to the elite championship with the Stormers, Super Rugby and the 2019 world title.    But this book is not only the exciting chronology, the breathtaking account of matches won and lost, the exaltation of the moments when everything changes, the frustrations, too, that each reader will relive.    It is the testimony of an authentic, human and convinced leader, who will help rugby players around the world, amateurs or professionals, to achieve a positive state of mind. It’s a moving reminder that even when the odds are against you, even when everything conspires to bring you down, it is possible to rise to your highest level, motivating those around you. And win. “This book offers you the joy of discovering an exceptional player and a being of immense generosity. Don't miss it. » Yannick NYANGA, former third row of the XV of France