Exclusive: Deon Fourie and Evan Roos Embrace Change as Stormers Kick Off New Era

In what many fans anticipated, the Stormers officially announced the return of Adidas as their kit sponsor during a high-profile launch event on Tuesday. 

The home and away jerseys, prominently featuring the iconic three stripes, mark a renewed partnership between the two brands following a brief hiatus.

Stormers veteran Deon Fourie expressed his delight at the reunion.

"It is exciting times, we got corporates and sponsors. This probably has put a lot more pressure on us to perform now. We need to perform now, so the supporters and crowd know we are the team," he told SportsBoom.co.za. 

Logo Launch Draws Mixed Reactions

The jersey unveiling came shortly after the Stormers introduced a new team logo, a move meant to symbolise a fresh chapter for the franchise. 

However, the rebrand didn’t land well with all supporters. Many long-time fans voiced disappointment, feeling that the change disregarded the Stormers’ legacy.

Fourie, however, defended the design, citing a deeper meaning behind the change.

"To be honest I liked it from the beginning, the thing is I knew the story behind it. I was at the beginning with the discussions around the logo and they shared the story and to be fair it resonated with me. It made sense to me."

Teammate Evan Roos also weighed in with a positive outlook.

"I am a big fan, yes the previous logo was with us for 20-25 years. Change is inevitable and I don't think change is a bad thing. We shouldn't forget our heritage and tradition which has been outlaid by our coaches and players from this group," Roos told SportsBoom.co.za. 

"We need to embrace change and move forward. Yes, people will be stuck in their old ways but I'm excited."

Despite the mixed initial response, players and management remain confident that the new brand identity will eventually win over the wider fanbase.

Timing Under Scrutiny

The timing of the rebrand, during a tough stretch in which the Western Province Currie Cup side failed to register a win, may have compounded fan frustration. Fourie acknowledged the backlash but remained optimistic.

"Its normal to get backlash from the public [regarding the logo], if you look at the world now. There is always backlash with change but I motto and ethos for the union will remain... we want to make Cape Town smile." 

"With the new logo, the hoops and sponsors, we trying to bring everyone together, be inclusive and look at our heritage."

Tough Season Opener Ahead

With renewed backing and a fresh look, the Stormers now face the ultimate test: results on the field. Their United Rugby Championship (URC) season kicks off with a blockbuster clash against reigning champions Leinster at home.

Fourie is under no illusions about the challenge ahead.

"It’s important we start strong. The past two seasons, we didn’t start well and had to claw our way back in the back end of the season. This time, we want to hit the ground running and what better way than against Leinster?"