Rugby
SARU reveals new Bok jersey
2009-05-09 11:57
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Cape Town - Springbok captain John Smit and host of other contracted Boks wore the jersey recently at the recording for an advertisement for the Castle South Africa 2009 British and Irish Lions series which will be flighted on Saturday.
The redesign sees the jumping springbok move to the right of the jersey, the Canterbury logo to the middle and the national sports emblem, the King Protea, on the left.
"We decided to be proactive rather than reactive and not wait for the promulgation of the pending National Colours act," said Marinos.
"Our leaders met with government as we were fully aware that the King Protea is the national symbol and that it had to be properly incorporated into the Springbok jersey.
"Obviously, modifying something that has such strong emotional symbolism as the Springbok jersey generates a lot of emotion, but the team will still be known as the Springboks as we realise the importance and strength of the brand, both locally and abroad.
"Having seen the new jersey, we're actually very excited as it underlines the fact we are the team of all the people of South Africa."
Cuan Chelin, CEO of Super-Brands, the holding company of Canterbury SA, said earlier they are looking forward to revealing the new SA Rugby gear.
"We encourage fans to support the national team by purchasing these items in recognition of the values that the emblems symbolise as well as to display their affection for the game," said Chelin.
"The new rugby jerseys will be offered to supporters at highly competitive prices - in fact, the wholesale price of the supporter's jersey will be less than that of last year, despite rising raw material costs. We have catered for various levels of consumers and have avid fans that will be able to choose from a wide selection of SA Rugby apparel."