Fond Farewells: Bath Rugby Bids Adieu to Four Departing Players
In a heartfelt farewell, Bath Rugby has confirmed the departures of four of its players at the end of the current season. The club bids adieu to Johannes Jonker, Juan Schoeman, Kieran Verden, and Max Wright, each of whom has left an indelible mark during their time at the Rec.
Kieran Verden: A Homegrown Talent
Verden, a 25-year-old academy product, expressed his gratitude to the fans, staff, and fellow players, stating, >”I’ve absolutely loved my time at the club and having the opportunity to represent this city.” The prop made his debut four seasons ago against Worcester Warriors and has since amassed 16 appearances.
Juan Schoeman: A Stalwart Loosehead
South African loosehead Schoeman, 32, has been a stalwart for Bath, making 62 appearances since joining from the Sharks in 2020. Schoeman, the older brother of Scotland prop Pierre, is rumored to be sought after by the United Rugby Championship outfit, the Lions. “I’m eternally grateful to have been afforded the opportunity to wear the Blue, Black and White jersey,” he said.
Johannes Jonker: A Valuable Acquisition
Schoeman’s compatriot, Jonker, signed from Ealing Trailfinders in 2021 and went on to play 27 times for the West Country outfit. “Playing alongside such talented teammates and having the support of our amazing supporters has been a true honour,” he reflected.
Max Wright: A Seven-Year Bath Veteran
Centre Wright, 26, joined Bath in 2017 from Yorkshire Carnegie and has registered 40 appearances for the club. “I’ve been lucky enough to call Bath my home for the last seven years. I’ve had some amazing memories and made some lifelong friends. I’ll remain a Bath fan for life,” he stated.
To fill the void left by the departing props, Bath have already recruited Leicester Tigers loosehead Francois van Wyk.
As the 2023-24 season approaches, the Bath faithful will bid farewell to these four players who have contributed immensely to the club’s success and ethos. Their departures mark the end of an era, but the excitement for the future remains palpable as Bath prepares to embark on a new chapter.
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