Ivan Smit from the Gauteng Lions has been named the Coca-Cola Hero of the day for day 4 of the U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week.
The prestigious Coca-Cola Hero of the Day award is presented on each day of the tournament in recognition of a game changing ‘hero’ moment.
Ivan was selected for the award by a Coca-Cola appointed panel of rugby experts after putting in a phenomenal performance. He kept his composure throughout the game even though his team, The Golden Lions, ended up on the losing end in their match-up against South West Districts. Despite the Lions coming up against formidable opposition Ivan continued to play to the best of his ability, scoring two tries to keep his side in the game for the majority of the match.
“I play every game as hard as I can and I play until the final whistle not matter what the score is. Even if my team is having a tough game and things are not working out for us, I still try to play my best and hopefully encourage the rest of my team mates,” said Ivan.
Fetsi Mbele, Coca-Cola South Africa’s Senior Communications Manager: Brand Experience commented, “Congratulations to Ivan on being selected as Coca-Cola Hero of the day for day 4 of the Coca-Cola Craven Week. At Coca-Cola we believe that it is essential to put platforms such as the Coca-Cola Youth Weeks in place for players of all ages to reach their full potential. I look forward to following the likes of Ivan as they carve out a career for themselves in South African rugby”
In addition to awarding the Hero of the Day to players at the u18 Craven Week, Coca-Cola has taken the “Hero of the Day” concept to social media!* As an acknowledgement of the massive role that schools play in the development of South Africa’s future rugby heroes, Coca-Cola is searching for South Africa’s ultimate school rugby hero. The winner and their school will be awarded with amazing rugby related prizes.*