Veteran loose forward Dave Ewers has announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.
The 34-year-old called it quits on social media, after making nine appearances for the Stormers during a short-term deal this season. His final match was against Cardiff at Cape Town Stadium three weeks ago.
Born in Zimbabwe, Ewers built a decorated career in England, starring for Exeter Chiefs from 2010 to 2023. He helped Exeter clinch the Investec Champions Cup and Premiership double in 2020. After a season at Ulster, he headed to Cape Town for his final professional stint.
The 125 kg back-rower was a force to be reckoned with during his peak years in the Premiership, and will be remembered fondly.
When joining the Stormers on a short-term contract last year, head coach John Dobson had said, “He has proven himself as a top player with the experience of what it takes to mix it with the best in Europe.”
Now has come the time for Ewers to “hang up my boots”, as he left an emotional message on social media.
Dave Ewers leaves a heartfelt retirement message
“Can’t thank my family for everything they’ve done for me, from the beginning driving all over Devon and beyond, leaving hours before everyone else just to get there on time cause we had no idea where we were going. All the cold and wet days you endured just to watch me, thank you,” he wrote.
“Thank you to Rob and everyone involved at Exeter for giving me the opportunity all those years ago, was a special journey going from the championship to winning the double in 2020.
“To all the boys, thank you for all the memories, I feel nothing but blessed to have experienced everything along the way with you all, on and off the pitch. We shared some incredible memories that I will never forget. A special mention to all the back room staff of everywhere I’ve been, and especially Exeter where I had all my injuries. Thank you for getting me back on the pitch. To all the fans, near and far, thank you for all the support over the years, it’s meant a lot to me.
“Feel so blessed to be finishing my career here in South Africa, it’s felt like home since I first arrived. A massive thank you to Dobbo & agents @steven_kitshoff & @aimee_kitshoff getting me down to Cape Town. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought I would represent this amazing union & be lucky to finish my career off at home.
This past year at Stormers has been one of the best highlights in my career where although, I’ve not played that much, I’ve fulfilled life long dreams of playing in the Currie cup and representing a team that I’ve always wanted to play for.
“I wish my boy, Oden, Could have been old enough to watch me play and remember it, was always a dream to be able to run out for a game with him. But, along with the loved ones I’ve lost along the way, I hope I’ve done you all proud.”
Messages of support for the Exeter Chiefs legend
Many friends, fans and former colleagues left messages of support for Ewers in the comments sections. Here are few, with a common message across the board.
Jack Nowell: “Genuinely one of the best. Pleasure my boy.”
Henry Slade: “Been a pleasure my brother. One of the best to ever do it. Absolute privilege sir xxx”
David Flatman: “Mate we all loved watching you. Stay freaky.”
