John Smit: Rugby Legend

  • Highlights:
    • John Smit is a retired rugby union player who captained South Africa in their successful 2007 World Cup campaign.
    • He predominantly played his domestic rugby at the Sharks but also enjoyed time at Clermont and the Saracens.
    • He retired from international rugby as the most-capped South African of all-time, with 111 appearances.
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Johannesburg, SA
  • **Fee range: $500 - $5,000

Keynote Topics

When at corporate events or functions, Smit often discusses the following topics:

  • Rugby Career
  • Maximising Success
  • Overcoming Barriers
  • Peak Performance
  • Dealing with Pressure
  • Importance of Leadership
  • Teamwork
  • Being a Role Model
  • International Rugby
  • Domestic Rugby
  • Rugby World Cup
  • Adaptability

As the former captain of the South African national rugby team, the Springboks, John Smit’s legacy extends far beyond the rugby field, making him an exceptional choice for fireside chats with corporates seeking insights into leadership, resilience, and team dynamics.

John Smit

John Smit’s illustrious rugby career is etched in the annals of sports history. Born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, Smit rose to prominence as a dynamic and tenacious rugby player. His exceptional skill, strategic acumen, and unwavering leadership qualities culminated in a remarkable journey, including 111 caps for the Springboks and a stint as the team’s captain.

As the captain of the Springboks, John faced the daunting task of leading his team to victory in the 2007 Rugby World Cup. His leadership during this historic triumph showcased not only his prowess on the rugby pitch but also his ability to inspire, unite, and guide a diverse group of individuals toward a common goal.

John’s fireside chats are not mere recountings of past victories but dynamic and interactive sessions designed to engage, inspire, and challenge corporate audiences. Through anecdotes, Q&A sessions, and thought-provoking discussions, Smit invites participants to explore the parallels between the world of rugby and the challenges faced by businesses in today’s dynamic landscape.

To bring the wisdom and inspiration of John Smit to your corporate event, contact us for booking details. Elevate your conference, leadership retreat, or team-building session with the unique insights of a rugby legend whose impact reaches far beyond the sports arena.

John Smit’s fireside chats are a transformative experience, offering corporates the opportunity to learn from a true leader, strategist, and champion. As your team embarks on a journey of growth, resilience, and collective success, let John Smit be your guide, imparting lessons forged in the crucible of elite sportsmanship.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

View further speakers

  • (40)
Butterscotch Clinton - Image 03 (January 29, 2026)

Butterscotch Clinton, the vocal percussionist virtuosa, uses her powerful voice to defy gender and music social constructs. She began her career in the underground male-dominated beatbox battle scene, where she was crowned the world’s first female beatbox champion. Soon thereafter, a breakthrough performance on America’s Got Talent lead her to place third on the hit […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Empowerment Speakers
  • (29)
Rick Lewis Entertainer

Rick Lewis’s journey into the world of professional speaking and entertainment began with a passion for performance. He started as a street performer, mastering the art of captivating audiences with his charisma and humor. This early experience laid the foundation for his future success as a speaker and entertainer. Rick Lewis | Motivational Speaker As […]

  • Travels from: San Diego, CA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (57)
Ginger Hardage

Ginger Hardage is a distinguished thought leader in workplace culture, leadership, and corporate communications. As the former Senior Vice President of Culture and Communications at Southwest Airlines, she played a pivotal role in shaping one of the most admired corporate cultures in the world. With over 25 years of experience as a key member of […]

  • Travels from: Dallas, TX
  • Culture Speakers
  • (13)
Sir Demis Hassabis - Image 01 (January 26, 2026)

Sir Demis Hassabis is a computer scientist, neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and the founder of DeepMind, the pioneering neuroscience-inspired artificial intelligence company acquired by Google in January 2014. Hassabis began his career in artificial intelligence in the games industry. A chess and programming prodigy, he co-designed and programmed the multi-million-selling construction and management simulation game Theme Park […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (39)
  • (2)
Derrick Tennant

Derrick Tennant is not just a survivor; he’s a thriver. His journey from promising athlete to inspirational speaker is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and love in the face of adversity. Despite experiencing a life-altering tragedy that left him paralyzed and in a coma for three days, Derrick emerged from the depths […]

  • Travels from: Atlanta, GA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (52)
Jason Redman 

Retired Navy SEAL Lieutenant Jason Redman stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. His electrifying presentations on leadership, failure, redemption, and overcoming life’s ambushes captivate audiences worldwide. With a distinguished 21-year career in the Navy, Redman’s journey from youthful setbacks to battlefield heroism is an inspiring narrative of perseverance and triumph. […]

  • Travels from: Chesapeake, VA
  • Military Speakers
  • (42)
  • (3)

Marian Bacol-Uba is a dynamic TEDx speaker, conscious business coach, and international bestselling author dedicated to empowering individuals to transform their lives. As the founder of Thriver Lifestyle, she guides entrepreneurs to embrace their power and thrive both personally and professionally. Marian’s journey from overcoming personal trauma to becoming a beacon of resilience and conscious […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (34)
  • (3)

Ryan Jenkins, CSP® (Certified Speaking Professional)™, is a globally recognized keynote speaker, virtual trainer, and a distinguished Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Renowned for his expertise in leadership, generational differences, team connection, and the future of work, Ryan delivers compelling talks that inspire audiences worldwide to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace with confidence […]

  • Travels from: Atlanta, GA
  • Generational Speakers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.