Newly-signed Orlando Pirates baller, Deano van Rooyen, penned a heartfelt appreciation message to his former club, Stellenbosch FC.
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The story
After Soweto giants, Orlando Pirates officially announced the signing of former Stellenbosch FC captain, Deano van Rooyen on a three-year contract, the baller shared a touching parting message to the club.
The 27-year-old started his professional career with Stellenbosch, spending the past eight years with the club and making 161 appearances – including the club's very first match in 2016.
He went on to break the Stellies all-time appearance record and co-captained the team to triumph in the Carling Knockout last season.
In a heartfelt message to the Cape Winelands club, the Idas Valley-born and bred star expressed his gratitude to his coaches, the powers at be at the club and the supporters for their unwavering support:
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Speaking to the the Stellies media team, van Rooyen mentioned that it was a dream and honour for him to represent the outfit and to make his dreams come true:
"It has been a dream come true for me to play for Stellenbosch FC over the last eight years," said Van Rooyen, adding:
"Growing up in Stellenbosch, there was never a professional football club, so the moment the club was formed, it became my dream to become a Stellenbosch player.
"It was a huge privilege and honour for me to wear the maroon jersey and there are so many memories that stand out from my time at the club – making my debut, winning the NFD, and lifting the Carling Knockout.
"As a local, I am incredibly proud to have helped bring silverware to the club and it is a great feeling to know that young players from Stellenbosch can look at my journey and know that it is possible to chase those dreams.
"It's not easy, there are a lot of obstacles, and it requires a lot of hard work to be successful, but it is possible if you have the belief," said the Pirates-bound defender, concluding with a quote that will leave a the Stellies faithful teary-eyed:
"Stellenbosch will always be home, and it was a huge honour and privilege for me to get to play in front of the crowd at Danie Craven Stadium. I will cherish those memories and I know that I will carry their support with me on the next step of my journey."
