'True professionalism': Bulls to honour Steyn with benefit year

NEWS: Bulls and Springboks legend Morne Steyn has been awarded a farewell benefit year, recognising his long-standing commitment and service to the Bulls.

Steyn’s benefit year will run until the conclusion of his contract at Loftus.

"Morne has been a stellar example of what true professionalism and commitment looks like in our rugby community," said Blue Bulls Company (BBCo) CEO Edgar Rathbone.

"He has inspired, entertained and re-defined sportainment over the last decade and a half, truly epitomising the very DNA of our organisation.

"We have been blessed to have him run out in our colours for more than 267 professional games and he will leave us as an icon in Pretoria and rugby across South Africa."

"We are extremely excited as an organisation to be able to say thank you to him by giving back to a cause that is dear to his heart and one that I am confident he will be dedicating the next phase of his life towards, the #MS10 Foundation

"For every home game held at Loftus between January and June 2023 [when Morne retires], the BBCo will donate ZAR1.00 of every ticket sold, towards his #MS10 foundation."

Rathbone added: "We hope that this also sends a strong message to young players coming up through the ranks, that there is a reward for loyalty. We intend to look after those who commit their skills and talent to the growth of our stable."

Steyn’s contract will expire at the end of June 2023 and the 38-year-old will be hanging up his boots to spend more time with his young family whilst also dedicating his time to the works of his #MS10 foundation.

"Playing at Loftus over such a long period of time has been a gift in life I wouldn’t have dreamt of in any perfect world," Steyn said.

"It has been a privilege and honour to represent all the passionate Loftus faithful, sharing the field with some incredible rugby players and experiencing many highs and lows with some of the most loyal rugby lovers, and ofcourse; winning many pieces of silverware along the journey.

"This place has been home not only to me, but my family, wife and now kids. We will miss it when I am done but luckily, we will always consider it our home and everyone here a part of our family."

Steyn concluded by saying: "I am thankful to the leadership of the organisation for their generous offer in supporting the #MS10 foundation.

"Thank you to everyone who has and who will buy tickets to our home games this year, because they too are going to play a critical role in contributing towards the work of #MS10. Thank you."