John Dobson delivers on his Barrydale promise
At the heart of yet another incredible United Rugby Championship season is a team motto that was fulfilled when the DHL Stormers secured a home final.
Also read: WATCH: Big gees in Barrydayle for local rugby clubs
Prior to kick-off, John Dobson’s men had already succeeded in their goal of making Cape Town smile as their stadium was packed to the rafters.
And although the result of that tightly contested grand final did not go their way, the Stormers again highlighted that they were a closely knit unit that had turned its back on boardroom politics while they transformed into the best top-tier team in the country.

A true team of people, their story remains one of inspiration and determination and it also proves that money can buy a lot of things – but not character.
Shortly after the final the Stormers coach again delivered on a pre-season promise he made. This time it was to the two rugby teams of Barrydale that are competing in the Boland league.
Dobson, Karoo Art Hotel sponsor new kit for local clubs
During his last visit to the Klein Karoo town of Barrydale, Dobson said that he would ensure that both the Eagles and Stryders teams would be kitted out in the best rugby attire and, in partnership with the Karoo Art Hotel, this promise was fulfilled.
‘I’m really proud to be associated with the Karoo Art Hotel and the Stryders and Eagles rugby teams and to be able to contribute towards the new jerseys. I hope you guys have a great second half of the season,’ said Dobson.
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‘Know that you can bank on the continued support of myself and the hotel and just keep playing rugby, keep supporting the community and keep on supporting the Stormers,’ he added.
The new jerseys and socks were utilised during a thrilling derby between the two sides which took place on July 15.
The Stryders won this encounter 23-14.
Cheetah flavour added to the big derby
Just weeks after the small community of Barrydale produced its first Currie Cup winner in Cohen Jasper (a try scorer in his team’s 25-17 victory in Bloemfontein), a distinct flavour of Cheetahs rugby was to the match between the two local teams.

With the annual Harleydale – a Harley Davidson event that attracts bikers from all corners of the country – in full swing, a group of riders performed a customary guard of honour for the local players.
This was met with great excitement and appreciation by the packed stadium – not to mention the players who ran out onto the field through the thundering sound of the machines.
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Words: Mickey Mentz
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Picture: Morgan Piek