Warner joins DHL Stormers on loan from Seawolves

Experienced scrumhalf Andre Warner has joined the DHL Stormers on a six-month loan as part of the partnership with the Seattle Seawolves.

Having trained with the squad in recent weeks while the American side have been in their off-season, the 32-year-old will extend his stay in Cape Town until February.

He comes with significant experience, having played for two South African clubs and French team Stade Francais before heading to America earlier this year.

Stormers Rugby has a positive working relationship with the Seawolves, who visited Cape Town earlier this year and spent a week immersed in training with the home side in the build-up to the friendly between the Seattle Seawolves and the DHL Stormers XXIII.

This loan deal is the latest example of the two clubs working together for their mutual benefit.

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 DHL 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 DHL 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.