Treu versus Stormers stand-off 'coming to a head'

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The investigation into the protracted stand-off between Stormers assistant coach Paul Treu and his colleagues appears to be coming to a head.

The investigation by Mendel Sass, a partner at the law firm Bowmans (previously Bowman Gilfillan), is reportedly at an advanced stage.

The investigation follows a 28-page report by Treu, in which he details the alleged maltreatment directed at him by Stormers head coach Robbie Fleck and fellow assistant coach New Zealander Paul Feeney.

It dates back to July, when Treu reportedly stormed out of a season-ending review meeting - citing his unhappiness at being marginalized by Fleck and Feeney.

Although details remain sketchy, sources close to the team suggest the investigation is also looking into possible discrimination.

Sass was not willing to put a timeline on when his findings will be available, but told @rugby365com that he must complete it "as soon as possible".

"The investigation is ongoing and I will be preparing a report and finalising it as soon as I can," he said.

He declined to provide any details of his investigation, but it is known that a number of high-profile players and coaches have already been interviewed.

Among those interviewed were Springbok captain Siyamthanda Kolisi, as well as Bok forwards Pieter-Steph du Toit and Eben Etzebeth.

There are reports that Treu was offered a position with the junior teams, as a compromise, but he was having none of that.

The investigation was launched after - what was labelled as a "fruitful and amicable" - meetings failed to find a solution to the stand-off in the coaching ranks.

By Jan de Koning

@king365ed

@rugby365com