WHEN South Africa and New Zealand line up for the final 2018 Rugby Championship match in Pretoria this coming Saturday, the Bay’s very own, Stephen Sass, will lead them by singing New Zealand’s national anthem.
Born and bred in Port Elizabeth and completing his schooling at Queen’s College Boys’ High in Komani (Queenstown), Sass has been given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sing in front of millions of people worldwide on October 6.
On September 12, Sass, who is currently a medical student in Pretoria, received the news that he will be performing the New Zealand national anthem at the game between the Springboks and the All Blacks at Loftus Versfeld.
“I submitted a CV as well as various videos and audio of myself singing, among other things, the New Zealand national anthem.
“I was contacted by the South African Rugby Union (SARU) and was informed that I had been approved to sing the anthem.”
“I love New Zealand rugby and everything it stands for. It is an honour for me to be able to sing the New Zealand national anthem at such an event.”
As the All Blacks return to Pretoria for the first time in more than a decade, the much-anticipated event will be watched worldwide and all eyes will be on Sass for his rendition of God Defend New Zealand.
To perform at a rugby match of such magnitude, Sass is filled with gratitude more than nerves.“This is an incredible opportunity and an amazing honour. Although, I am pretty sure that it is going to change the day prior to the performance.
Music is very much in my blood. My family has been instrumental in developing and reinforcing my love for music and singing.
“Ultimately, I think I will have to embrace the moment, accept the magnitude of the occasion and perform to the best of my ability.”
Over the years, the constant exposure to music and singing in the context of church, family and school choirs has resulted in an intense love for the art.
“I draw inspiration from many people and experiences. However, the most important source of personal inspiration is my faith.”
Sass was born in Port Elizabeth in 1994. His family moved to Lusaka, Zambia, when he was four years old. They spent five years there, after which the family moved back to South Africa.
They lived in Gordon’s Bay and Port Elizabeth in 2003 and 2004 respectively.
He completed high school at Queen’s College Boys’ High School in Komani.
After completing his BSc degree at Nelson Mandela University, he pursued his love for the medical field.
Sass is currently completing his fourth year as a medical student at the University of Pretoria.
His future plans involve more than just being a star.
“Ultimately, studying medicine is going to put food on my family’s table someday.
“So, my focus is to finish up my degree, internship and community service.
“As far as singing is concerned, who knows? I’d love to sing at another game, perhaps in New Zealand next time.”
