In a testament to resilience and determination, former Springbok Sevens star Seabelo Senatla has secured a new contract with the Stormers, marking an awe-inspiring return from a career-threatening injury.
👀 Look who is back in the game. Welcome back @Seabelo_Senatla
— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) December 5, 2024
💬 'This experience has been life-changing in many ways and I am so motivated to repay the faith that has been shown in me and my abilities'
Full story 👉 https://t.co/BCxS4ZfDOB#iamastormer #dhldelivers pic.twitter.com/wLG8tVyEzr
The talented winger, celebrated for his electrifying pace, had not stepped onto the field since suffering a severe car accident in mid-2023 that caused extensive nerve damage to his arm, threatening to end his professional rugby career.
Senatla, a former World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year, earned his last of 62 caps just before the harrowing incident. His road to recovery was riddled with challenges, yet he faced each obstacle with remarkable fighting spirit, bolstered by the unwavering support of his family, teammates, coaches, MyPlayers and the Stormers’ Player Welfare department.
Director of Rugby John Dobson expressed immense pride in Senatla’s comeback and noted its inspirational value to the entire team.
“I don’t think there could have been a more challenging case than this one, so to get this outcome is an outstanding effort.”
“I don’t think there could have been a more challenging case than this one, so to get this outcome is an outstanding effort,” Dobson stated.
He acknowledged not just the physical challenges Senatla faced but the mental and emotional ones as well, highlighting the holistic approach taken to player welfare in the brutal world of rugby.
“Seabelo is a remarkable character, and he has shown that yet again in making his return to professional rugby when so many would have given in,” Dobson continued.
“We are lucky to have him part of this squad.”
He missed a return against the Sharks due to a hamstring niggle, but Stormers speedster Seabelo Senatla is set for a miraculous comeback on Saturday vs Toulon after a serious car accident almost cut his rugby career short #ChampionsCup via @CapeTimesSA https://t.co/U8yc8cjJzX
— Leighton Koopman (@Leighton_K) December 5, 2024
With his spirit reignited, Senatla shared his gratitude and excitement about rejoining the team. He is set to play his comeback match tomorrow against Toulon (5:15 pm kickoff) in Gqeberha.
“I am so grateful for all of the support I have had to reach this point. This experience has been life-changing in many ways,” he said.
Reflecting on the lessons learned, he added that he is eager to get back to doing what he loves.
“I am so motivated to repay the faith that has been shown in me and my abilities.”
“I am so motivated to repay the faith that has been shown in me and my abilities. As Stormers players, we are encouraged to express ourselves on the field and I can't wait to do just that with a new appreciation for how special this game and this team is.”
Stormers' Head of Player Affairs Duncan Cruickshank commended Senatla for his perseverance, recognising the journey as a defining experience.
“It has been a pleasure to play a role in what has been a remarkable comeback both on and off the field,” he said, reiterating the Stormers’ commitment to player welfare and support.
As Senatla prepares to don the Stormers jersey once again, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the exhilarating flair and finesse that he exhibited on the pitch before his hiatus.