It’s official: Manie Libbok, the dazzling maestro of the rugby field, has hung up his Stormers jersey. Pouring his heart out in a touching social media post, the 28-year-old announced his move to the Hanazono Kintetsu Liners just in time for the new Japan Rugby League One season. Libbok, a key figure in the Stormers' recent golden era, leaves a legacy tinted with the glory of their first Vodacom URC title in the 2021-22 season and fresh off helping the Springboks keep their grip on the Rugby Championship title.
In a poignant farewell, Libbok didn’t just throw a quick goodbye; he penned a deep thank you note to everyone from the tea lady to the top brass. “Thank you Stormers family, and of course, to the incredible Faithful,” Libbok expressed. His gratitude didn’t stop at just words. He elaborated, “I want to take this moment to express my deepest gratitude to everyone at the @dhlstormers. From the coaches, management, medical team, and all the hardworking staff at the HPC. Thank you for the trust you placed in me and for believing. That belief inspired me to be the best version of myself.”
“To my teammates, thank you for the memories, the battles we fought together, and the brotherhood we built.”
Libbok’s departure is more than just a player moving leagues; it’s the end of an era of flair and finesse that he brought to the Stormers. His strategic playmaking and dead-eye kicking have been instrumental in shaping the team’s dynamic approach under coach John Dobson.
“To the Faithful – your continuous support, through highs and lows, has meant more than words can describe. Running out in front of you was always an honour.”
Coach Dobson himself wasn’t ready to see one of his stars go. In an emotional acknowledgment, Dobson revealed the mood in the locker room, saying, "We didn’t want to get rid of Manie." The sentiment was echoed as he mentioned, "A lot of tears in the Stormers change room." It's clear that Libbok's impact was felt not just on the field but deep in the hearts of those he worked with.
As Manie Libbok turns the page on this chapter of his career, the Stormers and their fans will no doubt keep a keen eye on his exploits in Japan, forever grateful for the memories and the titles he helped bring home. Libbok’s journey continues, but his legacy at the Stormers will resonate for many seasons to come.
2,193 posts
It’s official: Manie Libbok, the dazzling maestro of the rugby field, has hung up his Stormers jersey. Pouring his heart out in a touching social media post, the 28-year-old announced his move to the Hanazono Kintetsu Liners just in time for the new Japan Rugby League One season. Libbok, a key figure in the Stormers' recent golden era, leaves a legacy tinted with the glory of their first Vodacom URC title in the 2021-22 season and fresh off helping the Springboks keep their grip on the Rugby Championship title.
In a poignant farewell, Libbok didn’t just throw a quick goodbye; he penned a deep thank you note to everyone from the tea lady to the top brass. “Thank you Stormers family, and of course, to the incredible Faithful,” Libbok expressed. His gratitude didn’t stop at just words. He elaborated, “I want to take this moment to express my deepest gratitude to everyone at the @dhlstormers. From the coaches, management, medical team, and all the hardworking staff at the HPC. Thank you for the trust you placed in me and for believing. That belief inspired me to be the best version of myself.”
“To my teammates, thank you for the memories, the battles we fought together, and the brotherhood we built.”
Libbok’s departure is more than just a player moving leagues; it’s the end of an era of flair and finesse that he brought to the Stormers. His strategic playmaking and dead-eye kicking have been instrumental in shaping the team’s dynamic approach under coach John Dobson.
“To the Faithful – your continuous support, through highs and lows, has meant more than words can describe. Running out in front of you was always an honour.”
Coach Dobson himself wasn’t ready to see one of his stars go. In an emotional acknowledgment, Dobson revealed the mood in the locker room, saying, "We didn’t want to get rid of Manie." The sentiment was echoed as he mentioned, "A lot of tears in the Stormers change room." It's clear that Libbok's impact was felt not just on the field but deep in the hearts of those he worked with.
As Manie Libbok turns the page on this chapter of his career, the Stormers and their fans will no doubt keep a keen eye on his exploits in Japan, forever grateful for the memories and the titles he helped bring home. Libbok’s journey continues, but his legacy at the Stormers will resonate for many seasons to come.