Stellenbosch FC CEO Rob Benadie had admitted the club are “sad” at losing Deano Van Rooyen to Orlando Pirates but wishes him all the best after eight years with the club.
Earlier on Monday, Pirates confirmed the signing of Van Rooyen on a three-year deal with a two-year option.
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Van Rooyen, 27, was one of the mainstay’s in Steve Barker’s squad and helped the club to lift their first ever trophy last season but his fine performances now saw him being snatched up by the Buccaneers, as Stellies lose another key player.
“It has been a privilege to watch Deano grow over the last eight years from a young and hopeful talent into a household name in Stellenbosch,” Benadie said in a statement.
“To see a local player break through the ranks and become a respected leader on the pitch and in our community has been a source of great pride for all associated with the Club.
“While we are sad to see him leave, we are immensely grateful for his contributions and proud of all he has achieved and wish him nothing but success in his future endeavours.”
Van Rooyen follows the likes of Ashley Du Preez, Zitha Kwinika, Junior Mendieta and Sibongiseni Mthethwa, who have all left the Cape Winlands-based club over the last two seasons, while Iqraam Rayners is the next star player out as he will join Mamelodi Sundowns.
