The Vodacom Bulls continued with the strengthening of their squad after locking down four players during the continued lull in competitive action due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Walt Steenkamp signed from fellow South African side the Toyota Cheetahs on a two-year contract and will join the team in November.
Steenkamp, who plays lock, will bring in valuable overseas experience having played in the Guinness PRO14 for the Cheetahs.
Steenkamp said he was looking forward to working under Rugby World Cup winning coach Jake White at a team with rich rugby history.
“It’s a big step in my career, and there is certainly some big shoes to fill, but I look forward to putting on the Bulls jersey and making the Loftus faithful proud. I’m also excited about working with a coach like Jake, it is a great opportunity for me and I hope to grow from strength to strength under his leadership.”
The Bulls also saw youthful trio Johan Grobbelaar, Gerhard Steenekamp and Muller Uys recommit their playing futures to the club.
The three were able to gain Super Rugby experience before the season was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the Bulls, grooming the next generation of youthful talent is a critical pillar of its plan for success.
The Bulls also acquired the services of experienced forwards coach Russell Winter who joined as one of the assistant coaches to White.
Winter, 44, was previously the forwards coach of the DHL Stormers and DHL Western Province.
He has enjoyed a long relationship with White and said he was excited to implement his vision once competitive rugby resumes.
“The Bulls have always been a special team that have enjoyed success at the highest level. I’m excited to be part of this Bulls Family that shares so many values that I hold dear. I look forward to doing everything in my power to assist in making the Vodacom Bulls a team that not only produces the results on the field, but also goes above and beyond in making our supporters proud.”
