Stormers 'leader' makes bold call on playing future
CONTRACT EXTENSION: The Stormers secured the services of one of their most promising players on a long-term deal.
Dynamic loose forward Paul de Villiers has signed a contract extension that will keep him in Cape Town until at least 2029.
The 22-year-old former Junior Springbok captain has been a revelation at openside flank this year, stepping up in the absence of injured World Cup winner Deon Fourie.
A player with an incredibly high work-rate, De Villiers has proven himself a menace both at the breakdown and with the ball in hand.
Having led Western Province Under-21 to their second consecutive national title in 2024, he has made a big impression in the senior team in 2025.
He has been a vital cog in the team’s five straight wins in the United Rugby Championship this season.
Director of Rugby John Dobson said that securing De Villiers’ services on a long-term deal is a huge boost for several reasons.
“Paul has exceeded our expectations this year and has established himself as a key member of our team.
“He is extremely coachable, with a solid head on his shoulders, and the way he goes about things on the pitch makes him invaluable to us.
“He was identified as a leader from a young age, and the way he interacts with the senior players shows that he is keen to keep learning and developing his game.
“Paul’s growth within our system shows how our pathway structure is working, and having a player with his attributes is key to our game model,” he said.
De Villiers said that he is determined to keep developing and challenging himself in Cape Town.
“Being backed by the coaches and fellow players is probably what boosts you the most.
“It gives you confidence and helps you to focus on what’s important. That is something that I have felt this season, and with that obviously comes the responsibility to back it up.
“We have a really good balance between senior players and younger players coming through, which excites me for the future. I really believe that in the years to come we will only get stronger,” he said.
Image credit: @Stormers
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