Getting to meet your idol has got to be way up there on the list of best Christmas presents ever!
When Joseph Mpyana’s son Amani celebrated his third birthday, dressed up as his sports hero Siya Kolisi, I doubt that he ever imagined actually meeting the captain of the South African rugby team.
But then Mpyana’s Instagram post showing the little man dressed up in his green and gold Bokke kit, a re-creation of the celebratory moment when Siya Kolisi lifts the Webb Ellis Trophy after the Rugby World Cup finals in 2019, caught the eye of the Kolisi.
The rugby legend commented on Mpyana’s post, writing “Love this so much”. Kolisi then reposted the images on his own Instagram account with the caption: “This means more ! @joseph_mpyana.”
Kolisi was so taken by the little Amani that he decided to arrange to meet the little boy and his family.
Taking to his Instagram account, the Sharks player posted a series of images holding up a the little guy who, from the look on his face, seemed shocked to be in the arms of his hero.
In the pictures we see him touching Kolisi with an expression of awe and wonder.
The caption read: “Finally got to meet the young legend and his beautiful family ❤️ @joseph_mpyana. Looking forward to seeing him at the game tomorrow @sharksrugby”
For now it’s unclear whether Amani will in fact be attending the Sharks versus the Bulls match taking place at Jonsson Kings Park.