Springbok hooker André-Hugo Venter has recommitted his future to Stormers Rugby by signing a contract extension which runs until 2029.
The combative front row forward has played his whole professional career in Cape Town and has joined a growing group of players who are in it together for Project 2029.
Having lifted the Vodacom URC trophy in 2022 at the young age of 20, and with 77 DHL Stormers caps to his name already, Venter is poised to hit his prime over the next three seasons.
The 24-year-old is a key member of the current squad and with one Springbok cap to his name, will continue to push for higher honours.
Director of Rugby John Dobson said that keeping a player like Venter at this stage in his career is key to the Project 2029 strategy.
“André-Hugo made his senior debut at a very young age, and it was not long before he was a fixture in the squad. The fact that he has committed long-term shows the type of person that he is and is a testament to the positive environment we have here.
“He is competitive in everything he does and is very ambitious, which makes him the perfect fit for our team. He will contribute greatly to what we aim to achieve in the coming years,” he said.
Venter said that with his contract finalised, he will be putting all his focus into continuing to develop so that he can add even more to the team’s cause.
“This is a great team to play for, and I have felt right at home since the day I started. I know that I will continue to grow in this environment, and I want to keep challenging myself in that regard.
“I would like to thank everyone here who has played a role in my journey so far. I am incredibly thankful for everything I have learned, and excited to keep learning and improving as a player for this club.
“It is very exciting to be a part of Project 2029. I really believe in what the management has planned for this squad and look forward to us reaching even greater heights together in the future,” he said.