AUDIO: Stokke 'evolution' takes a sharp upwards turn
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INTERVIEW: Mzwandile Stick is an enigma, but only for those who have never taken the time out to get to know him.
When movers and shakers like Rassie Erasmus and Michael Yormark tap you up, you are not a Mickey Mouse.
By his admission, it has been a steep learning curve - from his humble beginnings as an Eastern Province Under-21 assistant coach to a two-time World Cup winner - in his coaching journey.
Erasmus, the iconic Springbok head coach, in a recent podcast, when in conversation with Stokke (Stick's nickname), revealed the 40-year-old's willingness to learn and ability to grow at a rapid rate of knots.
And even though some nescient supporters still don't understand what an 'off the ball coach' is, other more conversant members of the rugby community, have seen the real value that Stick brings to the table.
That is why it is not surprising that he has become a 'member' of the world-acclaimed agency, Roc Nation Sports International.
That makes him the first South African sports coach to be signed by RNSI.
It is a team that already includes esteemed SA stars like Siya Kolisi, Aphelele Fassi, Cheslin Kolbe and Jordan Hendrikse.
"Coaching is what I live for," Stick said.
"It's where my heart is, and I want to ensure that I can continue to give my all to the team, but I fully appreciate the value of having a strong team behind me, and feel it is the right time to take this step with Roc Nation Sports International."
RNSI President Michael Yormark told @rugby365com that signing Stick is about more than just brining a coach through.
Stick's influence extends beyond results and trophies.
"He is deeply committed to making a positive difference in people's lives, using his platform to inspire and empower others, and this partnership [with RNSI] will amplify these efforts, allowing him to reach a wider audience and create meaningful change," Yormark said.
"Mzwandile Stick is a remarkable individual, both as a coach and as a person.
"His passion, integrity and commitment to making a difference, align perfectly with our values, and we are so excited to see him become the first coach from South Africa to join RNSI.
"We are fully committed to supporting his coaching goals and off-field ambitions, while also assisting in facilitating commercial opportunities and building his profile."
Yormark is not the first person to describe Stick as an 'extraordinary' person who has overcome many challenges.
(Roc Nation Sports International President Michael Yormark spoke to @rugby365com about signing Mzwandile Stick ....)
"There is a huge opportunity in front of him," he told @rugby365com, adding: "An opportunity to climb the coaching ladder and hopefully become the head coach."
The RNSI boss said they want people to get to know Stick the person.
"He can inspire people, not just in South Africa, but around the world."
He described signing Stick as a natural extension of their business, even though it is the first SA coach.
They do have sports coaches from other codes on their roster.
Asked what inspired RNSI to sign Stick, Yormark said: "He has a purpose and his purpose is bigger than coaching.
"The purpose is to have an impact, to change lives, to share his story to inspire the next generation.
"It is that true desire to impact lives and do good that attracted him to Roc Nation.
"That is why we are here in South Africa and we do what we do."
@king365ed
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