John Dobson is rallying the Stormers to embrace the spirit of the Western Cape as they prepare to launch their 2026-27 Vodacom URC season on international grounds. The Stormers are set to commence their campaign in Galway against Connacht on 25 September, then moving to face Edinburgh within the week, before tackling their first home fixture against the Sharks on 10 October.
The team recently showcased their new kits at the Cape Town Stadium, stirring excitement for the upcoming matches. The away kit notably nods to the legendary Men in Black era.
"This is the most well-rounded squad we have assembled in recent years,"
Dobson voiced during the event. However, he acknowledged the gaps in the team, notably at lock, due to the exits of Salmaan Moerat and Ruben van Heerden. Yet, the return of seasoned pros like Siya Kolisi, Cheslin Kolbe, and Wilco Louw, combined with the fresh energy of newcomers Riley Norton, Markus Muller, and Oliver Reid boosts the team's confidence.
"Our first two fixtures are away against Connacht and Edinburgh on 4G surfaces … that’s a tough start. Then we come back for that amazing sequence of four home games, including the Sharks."
Dobson highlighted the importance of seeing young players make their Stormers debut, which solidifies the pathway for local talent and reflects the enduring influence of Jacques Hanekom's Stellenbosch institute.
Dobson also addressed scrutiny regarding recruitment decisions, particularly the return of Siya Kolisi at age 35. He firmly defended this choice:
"I have never understood any resistance to a player of Siya’s calibre; he remains one of South Africa’s finest players and leaders, as shown by his recent Test performances."
He drew parallels to Athletic Bilbao’s unique recruitment policy, underscoring a comparable commitment to nurturing home-grown talent in the Western Cape, fostering a deep understanding of the region's unique culture and community.
This season's theme, ‘Connected’, encapsulates the team’s aim to foster on-field cohesion and genuine connections between players and fans. Dobson remarked on the profound heritage of rugby in the area, which dates back to the founding of Hamiltons in 1875.
"Rugby in this region carries a heritage stretching back nearly 150 years to the founding of Hamiltons in 1875. Our goal this season is to honour that legacy by staying deeply connected to our purpose, our rugby, and our people."
With a history rich in tradition and a future brimming with potential, the Stormers are set to make a memorable mark in the upcoming URC season, fortified by a blend of experienced leadership and burgeoning talent.
