Saffa one of 11 players to depart Ulster
NEWS: Ulster confirmed that they will bid farewell to 11 players at the end of this season.
One of those players is Werner Kok, who joined the side from Northern Ireland in 2024 from the Sharks.
The former BlitzBok World Series winner scored 12 tries thus far for Ulster in all tournaments, including a hat-trick in a 38-all draw against the Stormers last weekend.
The province can also confirm that Academy players Sam Berman, Wilhelm De Klerk, Ethan Graham, Lukas Kenny and Josh Stevens will also leave following the conclusion of the current season.
Paying tribute to those leaving, General Manager Rory Best commented:
“I’d like to thank the players who are moving on for their application and contributions to Ulster Rugby.
“I hope that supporters will join us on Friday night after full-time, as we celebrate their efforts and wish them well for the future.”
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Best singled out two Ulster Rugby centurions, John Andrew and David Shanahan, to mark their longevity and importance, with both having played for over a decade in the senior side.
“I had the privilege of being teammates with both John and Dave, both of whom have made a big impact both on and off the pitch and have been valuable stalwarts of the senior squad.
“Both have made over 100 appearances in the jersey and have been fantastic teammates, setting a high level of professionalism for others to follow.”
Academy Manager, Gavin Hogg, also took the opportunity to thank the Academy leavers for their efforts.
“We thank those departing for all their hard work and commitment during their time in the academy programme.
“Myself and all the academy staff have enjoyed working with each player and supporting them in their development.
“We wish each of them all the best in their next steps.”
Players to depart Ulster: John Andrew, Angus Bell, Matthew Dalton, James Humphries, Werner Kok, Ben Moxham, Rory McGuire, Bryan O’Connor, Marcus Rea, Sean Reffell, David Shanahan.
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