Outgoing Stormers back Dillyn Leyds says he is grateful to have played for the Cape side, but disappointed that he cannot play one final match at Newlands before leaving for France.
It was confirmed earlier this week that Leyds and Wilco Louw will not be available for Stormers selection again when the Vodacom Super Rugby season resumes because they are contractually obliged to report for duty with new clubs. Leyds has signed for French club La Rochelle and Louw will join English team Harlequins.
Leyds had been in the Western Province rugby set-up since 2010, including his youth career, and made his Stormers debut in 2014. Since then, he has made 65 Super Rugby appearances for them.
The 27-year-old took to Instagram to express his gratitude for the opportunities that came his way and thanked the backroom staff and his teammates for sharing the journey with him.
‘The last seven years have all been an absolute dream come true for me. I got to do what I love and enjoy in one of the best cities in the world and at one of rugby’s most iconic venues week in and week out,’ Leyds posted.
‘I want to say thank you to the management and coaching staff who’ve helped and guided me during my time over here. To my teammates, words won’t do it any justice as to how much I have enjoyed my time on and off the field with you guys.
‘I’ll leave here with so many great memories and valuable friendships that were built during this time and to me that’s ultimately the biggest W. I really hope there’ll be time for one more team social just to end it off in style.’
With Super Rugby 2020 suspended and uncertainty surrounding when or indeed if the local season will resume, it was confirmed that Leyds had played his final game for the Stormers, which the player says is a shame and a disappointment.
‘This was definitely not how I wanted things to end and right now I would give anything for just one more 80 with the boys but nevertheless my time has come to say goodbye, a really tough goodbye to the Stormers and Western Province family.’
He also had a special word of thanks for the Newlands faithful, who not only have to take leave of several of their players, but also of the iconic stadium after it was decided to move the franchise to Cape Town Stadium.
‘To the fans, thanks so much for your support, it’s very much appreciated. You guys have really made Newlands that much more special and I think I speak for us all as players when I say we’re sad to see it go. Whether it’s a “boo” from the grand stand or “Gaan sny jou hare” (go cut your hair) from the railway stand, I know I will miss it all dearly.
‘Thank you Cape Town. It was lekke’, nca, and so vibey. Hopefully I’ve also left you guys with some good memories and not just one lucky pass.’
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
