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We’re not sure if it’s the sea of jerseys, the rugby-induced adrenaline pump, the Cape Town gees or simply a combination of these and more that makes a Stormers matchday at the DHL Stadium such an electrifying experience.

All we know is that this weekend is shaping up to be no different.

This Saturday, 18 April, DHL Stormers take on Irish outfit Connacht in a Vodacom URC clash, with kick-off set for 1:45pm. And if one game isn’t enough? Stick around because there’s a second fixture straight after, with the Stormers U23 side facing the Bulls U23 at 4pm.

For an added touch of rugby gees, this weekend carries a little extra weight: Fans will come together in honour of long-serving team manager Chippie Solomon, whose passing was announced last week.

So, expect a moment that’s less about rivalry and more about respect and the tight-knit nature that embodies the heart of the Stormers community.

Make a day of it (trust us) 

If you’re heading to the stadium, don’t treat this like a last-minute arrival situation. It’s a get-there-early kind of day:

  • Gates open: 11:45am
  • Team arrival: Around 12:25pm (definitely worth catching)
  • Kick-off: 1:45pm

With traffic expected to be congested, aim to be in the area by midday and in your seat well before kick-off.

Cold, wet… and very Cape Town

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the weather.

With two cold fronts making landfall, it seems a proper glimpse of winter will take over Cape Town, which means cold, possibly wet, definitely layered – but we already know that drill, right?

Important note: 

  • Umbrellas are a no-go (they’ll be taken at the gate), so opt for a jacket or poncho instead.

The vibe off the field

Even before the first whistle, there’s always plenty happening around the stadium:

  • A buzzing beer garden (open from 11:45am)
  • Live beats from Red Bull DJ Phil
  • Food trucks and fun activations
  • A Clover Kids Zone for the little ones

It’s the kind of setup where you can easily lose track of time before the game even starts.

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Getting there without frustration and headaches

If this is not your first DHL Stadium rodeo, you already know: parking is not your friend.

Your best move:

  • Park in town
  • Hop on a free MyCiTi shuttle from Civic Centre or Thibault Square (simply show your ticket, and you’re good to go
  • Try your luck at the stadium, where limited parking is available (R120, card only), but expect delays

Tickets: don’t get caught out

A few quick but important reminders:

  • Your ticket needs to be on your phone wallet via the Stormers App
  • Screenshots won’t work
  • Everyone needs their own ticket on their own device

Also, sit where you’re meant to sit as there will be checks conducted inside the stadium.

And if you still need to purchase some tickets, you can do so here.

Quick dos and don’ts

  • No outside food or drinks
  • No umbrellas
  • Smoke/vape only in designated areas
  • Keep your ticket on you at all times

And like any big event, keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

The Stormers are in a strong position this season and are pushing for a top spot on the URC log, making every home game count as the playoffs approach. Connacht, meanwhile, are never pushovers, which means we can expect a physical, fast-paced clash with plenty on the line.

Think two games, a packed stadium, a meaningful tribute and bona fide rugby action.

So, layer up, get there early and bring the gees!

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Picture: Stormers / Facebook

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