Damian Willemse reflects ahead of milestone Stormers cap

By Lonwabo Miso
7th May 2025

Springbok utility back Damian Willemse has paid tribute to coaches Robbie Fleck and Paul Feeney for backing him early in his career, as he approaches his 100th cap for the Stormers.

At just 18, Willemse made his debut against the Kings in Super Rugby, mere months after finishing matric.

The Stormers host the Dragons at Cape Town Stadium in Round 17 of the United Rugby Championship on Saturday, and Willemse reflects on his journey from prodigy to seasoned pro.

"It's an amazing and special occasion for me to bring up my 100th appearance for the Stormers. I am grateful for those coaches who saw something in me and gave me my shot at just 18 years old. All the steps that I've taken and the opportunities I was afforded made me the player I am today," said Willemse.

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The Cape Town-born star began his professional career surrounded by Springbok legends like Damian de Allende, Siya Kolisi, Cheslin Kolbe, Eben Etzebeth, and Pieter-Steph du Toit.

Willemse says those world champions made a lasting impact on him as a young player.

"When I was a junior, those senior international players made a massive impact on my career.

"The personnel that the club has brought in, together with the coaching staff's ideas and thinking around the game, has made us the team that we are - a strong and competitive team in the URC," said the Bok utility back.

Regular flyhalf Manie Libbok is back to full fitness ahead of Saturday’s clash, giving Head Coach John Dobson a key selection call.

Libbok could return to the starting lineup alongside Willemse, fullback Warrick Gelant, and utility back Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, or he could come off the bench.

Willemse says he welcomes the chance to combine with the formidable backline unit.

"It's always been either Manie, or Sacha, or me that have been injured, but now all four of us are healthy and ready to play. I think over the last few weeks, we have really started to synergise," explained Willemse.

Willemse celebrates his birthday on Wednesday, 7 May 2024, and is aiming to end the week on a high with a win in the Stormers’ penultimate URC round-robin match.

After a tough, injury-hit season in 2024, Willemse says his time away from the game gave him valuable perspective and a much-needed reset.