Former Stellenbosch FC captain Deano van Rooyen has penned an emotional farewell message to the Stellenbosch FC family following his departure from the club.
Van Rooyen was announced as a new Orlando Pirates signing on Monday. He signed a three-year contract with the Soweto Giants, including an additional two-year option.
Die Hond, as he is affectionally known began his professional career with the Western Cape side and holds the club’s all-time appearance record having been featured in 161 matches. He led his team to lift the Carling Knockout Cup last season.
“I am eternally grateful for your support and the trust you placed in me, and I will forever cherish the memories we made together,” van Rooyen said.
“I also want to thank all of our loyal Stellies supporters. I am overwhelmed by the backing we received as a team and for the support I received personally.
“Stellenbosch will always be home, and it was a huge honour and privilege for me to play in front of the crowd at Danie Craven Stadium. I will always remember those moments and I know that I will carry your support with me on my next step of my journey,” he concluded.
The acquisition of Deano will solve the issues of the right-back position for the Buccaneers as Bandile Shandu is constantly side-lined due to injuries which left Jose Riveiro with Thabiso Monyane as his only option.
Pirates are set to kickstart their CAF Champions League campaign by visiting Madagascar side CNaPS Sport on Sunday, 18 August with the return leg set for 23 August.
After overcoming SuperSport United 3-1 in the quarterfinals of the MTN8, the Sea Robbers have been pitted against Cape Town City in the semi-finals and the 27-year-old will not be part of this match having come on as a substitute during Stellies’ 3-1 win against TS Galaxy.
MTN8 rules state, “A player whose name appears on a team sheet of a participating club in the competition will be deemed to be cup-tied and may not play for another club in the competition for the same season.”
Written by Siphesihle Soni