A group of Suzuki Griquas players will join the DHL Stormers squad for their pre-season preparations, as part of the development agreement between the two rugby organisations.
The agreement, announced earlier this year, enables players to move easily between the two squads to their mutual benefit via a loan structure. It also includes collaboration on staff development, providing opportunities for staff to learn from one another and share best practice.
This partnership has seen various Stormers players, such as Sazi Sandi and Connor Evans, get valuable game time in Griquas colours this year and with the Kimberley team’s Carling Currie Cup campaign now concluded, there are a few players who will join the Stormers squad as they prepare for the upcoming Vodacom United Rugby Championship.
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Fullback Connor Mahoney, lock Dylan Sjoblom and prop Leon Lyons have all joined the Stormers squad already as preparations for the upcoming campaign step up, with wing Dylan Maart, loose-forward Marco de Witt and prop Cebo Dlamini set to join them at a later stage.
Wing and Springbok Sevens star Sako Makata has returned to the Stormers fold, having played for Griquas in the Currie Cup on loan as part of the agreement.
“It was so valuable for some of our players to get some game time for the Suzuki Griquas in the SA Cup earlier this year and now we see the agreement working the other way, as we ramp up preparations for the Vodacom URC, which is three weeks away,” said Stormers Director of Rugby, John Dobson. “We have seen some stand-out performances from these six players in the Carling Currie Cup and we are looking forward to working with them to see what they can add to our system. This is an important step forward in this partnership we have formed with the Suzuki Griquas and we are looking forward to seeing it grow further in the future.”
Suzuki Griquas CEO Arni van Rooyen said that this collaboration is a prime example of how working relationships can foster growth and excellence in South African rugby.
“By leveraging each other’s strengths, resources, and expertise, both teams benefit from a shared pool of talent and knowledge,” he said. “This synergy not only enhances their competitive edge, but also contributes to the overall development of players and the game itself. The partnership underscores the value of unity and co-operation in achieving common goals and driving success on and off the field.”
