Stormers, Seattle Seawolves partnership delivers Warner loan deal
NEWS: Experienced scrumhalf Andre Warner has joined the Stormers on a six-month loan from the Seattle Seawolves, strengthening John Dobson’s squad through the growing partnership between the two clubs.
The 32-year-old has been training with the Stormers during the Seawolves’ off-season and will now remain in Cape Town until February.
Warner arrives with a wealth of experience after representing the Bulls and Lions in South Africa, spending time with French club Stade Français, and moving to Major League Rugby earlier this year to join Seattle.
The move is the latest product of the strong relationship between Stormers Rugby and the Seawolves. Earlier this year, the American franchise spent a week in Cape Town, training alongside the Stormers before facing a Stormers XXIII in a friendly.
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Warner’s temporary switch continues the collaboration between the two clubs, with both sides using the partnership to provide valuable playing and development opportunities during their respective seasons.
Director of Rugby John Dobson said that this shows the value of the partnership with the Seattle team.
“It is fantastic to have this kind of relationship with the Seawolves, and I know they gained a lot from their visit here, beyond just the 80 minutes at DHL Stadium. It was really valuable for us to have them here, both to prepare the Stormers XXIII ahead of the SA Rugby U23 Cup and to strengthen the connection between the two clubs.
“I’d like to thank Head Coach Allen Clarke and everyone involved there for being open to this deal to have a player like Andre join us for the next six months,” he said.
Dobson said that Warner will add immense value, with the 26/27 season kicking off this week.
“Andre has been really impressive since joining up with us in pre-season. He has been a consistent performer for many years, and you can see why in the professionalism he brings.
“We have had some injuries at scrumhalf, so to be able to bring a player like Andre in is hugely helpful.
“He showed his worth in our pre-season match in Paarl and will also be able to help develop some of the exciting young players in our system as well,” he added.
Clarke said that everyone at the Seawolves will follow Warner’s progress at the Stormers with interest.
“We’re genuinely excited for Andre. He’s been a huge part of the Seawolves and is someone who means a great deal to our club, both as a player and as a person.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for him and another positive step in our partnership with the DHL Stormers. It gives Andre the chance to keep playing at a high level during our off-season, challenge himself in a great rugby environment, and continue to grow his game.
“We’ll be supporting him every step of the way, and I know our fans will be following him with real pride. Andre is a Seawolf, and we can’t wait to welcome him home in February and see him pull on that jersey again,” he said.
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