The Vodacom Bulls have committed to recognising the contribution to the union of 68-Test Springbok Morne Steyn with a “farewell benefit”.
The highly-decorated flyhalf, who debuted for the Bulls in 2003 and remains the second leading point-scorer in Springbok and Super Rugby history, is set to retire from the game when his current contract expires in June. Steyn has made 267 appearances for the Bulls, comprising 129 in Super Rugby, 116 in the Currie Cup, 21 in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship and two in the Champions Cup.
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The Bulls will donate to Steyn’s #MS10 foundation at a rate of R1 per ticket sold to matches at Loftus until June, backdated to the beginning of this year.
“Morne has been a stellar example of what true professionalism and commitment look like in our rugby community,” said Bulls chief Edgar Rathbone. “We have been blessed to have him run out in our colours for more than 267 professional games and he will leave us as an icon in Pretoria and rugby across South Africa.”
“We are extremely excited as an organisation to be able to say thank you to him by giving back to a cause that is dear to his heart.
“We hope that this also sends a strong message to young players coming up through the ranks, that there is a reward for loyalty. We intend to look after those who commit their skills and talent to the growth of our stable.”
After 14 years of serving our proud union, and in his final season, we honour Morne Steyn: R1 of every ticket sold for Vodacom Bulls games at Loftus this season will go to Morne Steyn’s #MS10 foundation ? pic.twitter.com/zbOnyvzliF
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) February 27, 2023
“Playing at Loftus over such a long period of time has been a gift in life I wouldn’t have dreamt of in any perfect world,” said Steyn.
“It has been a privilege and honour to represent all the passionate Loftus faithful, sharing the field with some incredible rugby players and experiencing many highs and lows with some of the most loyal rugby lovers, and of course; winning many pieces of silverware along the journey.
“This place has been home not only to me, but my family, wife and now kids. We will miss it when I am done but luckily, we will always consider it our home and everyone here a part of our family.”
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/INPHO/Shutterstock/BackpagePix