Sean Fitzpatrick Reflects on All Blacks Anthem Moment with Savea

Sean Fitzpatrick, the legendary All Blacks hooker, recently described an unexpected and deeply meaningful experience standing alongside current captain Ardie Savea during the New Zealand national anthem at Ellis Park, a moment he characterizes as a symbolic passing of the torch.

Fitzpatrick, who captained the first New Zealand team to win a series in South Africa 30 years ago, was present at Ellis Park in a ceremonial capacity, tasked with placing a trophy. The plan shifted when he was asked to hold the New Zealand flag during the anthem, a role that led to him standing with the team, much to his initial surprise and discomfort, as reported by Planet Rugby Sean Fitzpatrick tells Planet Rugby.

An Unplanned Anthem Experience

The 92-cap former All Black admitted he felt "a bit awkward to say the least" when the team lined up beside him. He did not anticipate being part of the anthem formation, expecting to leave the field after his trophy-related duties. However, as the anthem began, Savea notably placed his arm around Fitzpatrick.

This gesture left Fitzpatrick feeling "so honored," describing it as a pivotal moment for him personally and in terms of the All Black legacy. He views it as a significant act in "passing on the baton and the legacy of the All Black jersey honored by Savea's gesture."

Legacy and the Greatest Rivalry Series

Legacy is a central theme in New Zealand rugby, and the recently established Greatest Rivalry series between the All Blacks and the Springboks reflects this. This biennial series, which some critics suggest disadvantages other Rugby Championship nations like Australia and Argentina, was partly conceived to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Fitzpatrick's team, known as the 'Incomparables'.

Fitzpatrick himself strongly supports the series, stating that he "takes his hat off to the New Zealand and South Africa rugby unions for creating the Greatest Rivalry series." He argues that the sport needs to prioritize "meaningful tours and meaningful games," drawing a parallel with initiatives like the Nations Championship. This series adds significant weight to the international rugby news calendar.

Beyond the Field: Community Engagement

Fitzpatrick's involvement extends beyond high-profile rugby events. In his capacity as chairman of the Laureus Academy, he engages with challenging social environments. He visited the Bonnytoun secure care facility on the Cape Flats in South Africa, an area with alarming per capita murder rates, often involving young individuals.

The former captain highlights the Laureus Academy's work there, running boxing and rugby projects. He notes the prevalence of children with "little teardrop tattoos seen in Bonnytoun facility" signifying killings, underscoring the vital community work being done in these difficult circumstances.