Damian Willemse’s words captured the Stormers’ long game as they chase European relevance and a first Investec Champions Cup star, writes MARK KEOHANE.
Writing for the Sunday Times, Keohane says Willemse’s comment that “the grass isn’t greener on the other side. The grass is greener where you water it – and that’s what we’re doing here” spoke directly to the Stormers’ commitment to continuity, local investment and a settled coaching group under John Dobson. It is not about facilities or short-term fixes, but about building a squad capable of sitting at Europe’s top table by 2029.
Keohane notes that the Stormers understand where true club prestige lies. While they have already won the Vodacom URC, the Champions Cup remains the ultimate prize. Up north it is known simply as “chasing the star”, and history shows how exclusive that club is, with only 13 teams lifting the trophy in three decades.
South African players have played starring roles in past Champions Cup success stories, particularly at Toulon and Saracens, yet the Bulls, Sharks and Stormers have struggled to break beyond the quarter-finals. The reasons, Keohane argues, are structural and ruthless: squad depth, dual-competition demands and long-term planning separate contenders from tourists.
DOBBO: Project 2029 all about winning
This is where Project 2029 comes into focus. Dobson’s contract extension signals belief in a home-grown model, with Willemse leading the charge and players such as Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Jurie Matthee committing long term. The return of Wilco Louw and Siya Kolisi next season further reinforces that vision.
For Keohane, Dobson’s deep roots in Cape Town matter. He understands the province, its people and its rugby culture. That alignment, combined with patience and investment, makes Project 2029 feel less like hope and more like intent.
Photo: Cole Cruickshank/Gallo Images
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