John Dobson, the Stormers' director of rugby, has extended his contract with the Cape Town-based United Rugby Championship (URC) club, despite interest from the PREM outfit Gloucester. Dobson, a seasoned rugby coach, has been instrumental in the Stormers' success, leading them to victory in the inaugural URC season in 2022 and coaching Western Province to the Currie Cup win in 2017. He was appointed as the Stormers' head coach in 2020 and later as director of rugby in 2024. The team is currently on an unbeaten streak in all competitions during the 2025/2026 season, topping the URC table with 32 points after winning all seven matches.
However, there was a potential twist in the tale as Dobson had conversations with Gloucester about becoming their director of rugby. These negotiations, however, fell through at the last minute, allowing Dobson to stay with the Stormers. The club has been further strengthened with the contract extensions of star playmaker Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and the return of Springboks skipper at the end of the current season.
Stormers Rugby chief executive Johan le Roux expressed his delight at retaining Dobson's services, emphasizing his crucial role in the club's 'Project 2029' ambitions. Dobson himself is energized by the challenge, having built a strong team with meaningful depth and investing in top junior talent. He praised the support from the Stormers' ownership, coaching staff, and the positive impact of the new ownership. Dobson sees his role as a dream job, contributing to the club's success and bringing joy to the supporters.
Despite the recent success, Dobson remains focused on the Springboks' ambitions, recognizing the importance of the 'physical' derby clash as a platform to impress Rassie Erasmus. The Stormers' 'Project 2029' is a long-term vision, and Dobson is committed to seeing it through, ensuring the club reaches new heights in the world of rugby.
