The Stormers are grappling with the reality of losing their captain, Salmaan Moerat, who is set to join La Rochelle after the season concludes. John Dobson, the team's coach, has acknowledged the departure of the influential lock, who was enticed by a substantial offer from the French club.
Dobson expressed his disappointment over Moerat's decision, emphasizing his pivotal role in the team's future prospects. "We didn’t want him to leave us. Our plan was for him to be the captain for our Project 2029. He is a massive asset for the Stormers," he shared with Netwerk24. The coach's strategy was clearly disrupted, but he remains supportive of Moerat's choices.
"I can’t understand why there is such nastiness towards him. He gives 100 million percent on the field and puts his body on the line in every match,"
Dobson defended his captain passionately, recalling a critical period last year when the team's performance hinged on Moerat's leadership. "Last year, we were 12th on the log at one stage and had to win four home games in a row. Do you remember the level of intensity and physical presence he brought?" he added.
The absence of Moerat was notably felt during last season's quarter-final against the Glasgow Warriors, where the Stormers felt the void left by their captain. "Given the physical standard he set, it was huge when we lost him," Dobson remarked, highlighting the impact of Moerat’s early exit from the game.
Despite their initial reluctance, the Stormers management decided not to hinder Moerat's move, recognizing the significant life-changing opportunity it represented for him and his family. "He had an opportunity that will change his and his family’s lives," Dobson noted, revealing a deeper understanding and respect for Moerat's decision beyond mere contractual obligations.
Dobson also hinted at a potential return for Moerat, suggesting that the connection between the player and the club remains strong. "We have a relationship with Salmaan where it’s not just about contracting. That’s why we agreed to his request, but with the door wide open for him to return," he concluded, leaving a glimmer of hope for fans that this separation might not be permanent.
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The Stormers are grappling with the reality of losing their captain, Salmaan Moerat, who is set to join La Rochelle after the season concludes. John Dobson, the team's coach, has acknowledged the departure of the influential lock, who was enticed by a substantial offer from the French club.
Dobson expressed his disappointment over Moerat's decision, emphasizing his pivotal role in the team's future prospects. "We didn’t want him to leave us. Our plan was for him to be the captain for our Project 2029. He is a massive asset for the Stormers," he shared with Netwerk24. The coach's strategy was clearly disrupted, but he remains supportive of Moerat's choices.
"I can’t understand why there is such nastiness towards him. He gives 100 million percent on the field and puts his body on the line in every match,"
Dobson defended his captain passionately, recalling a critical period last year when the team's performance hinged on Moerat's leadership. "Last year, we were 12th on the log at one stage and had to win four home games in a row. Do you remember the level of intensity and physical presence he brought?" he added.The absence of Moerat was notably felt during last season's quarter-final against the Glasgow Warriors, where the Stormers felt the void left by their captain. "Given the physical standard he set, it was huge when we lost him," Dobson remarked, highlighting the impact of Moerat’s early exit from the game.
Despite their initial reluctance, the Stormers management decided not to hinder Moerat's move, recognizing the significant life-changing opportunity it represented for him and his family. "He had an opportunity that will change his and his family’s lives," Dobson noted, revealing a deeper understanding and respect for Moerat's decision beyond mere contractual obligations.
Dobson also hinted at a potential return for Moerat, suggesting that the connection between the player and the club remains strong. "We have a relationship with Salmaan where it’s not just about contracting. That’s why we agreed to his request, but with the door wide open for him to return," he concluded, leaving a glimmer of hope for fans that this separation might not be permanent.