First Vodacom Stormers friendly for 2006 confirmed

With one of the four South African franchises facing relegation at the end of the season to make way for the new Eastern Cape based team in 2007, local derbies promise to be more fierce than ever!

The Vodacom Stormers kicked off their preparation for the 2006 Super 14 Tournament on Monday 14 November at their training facility in Bellville.

A squad of 36 has started their pre-season training, with the first phase of conditioning focusing on strength and metabolic endurance.

The squad will train together until December 16th, and will then be expected to manage the rest of their training programme on an individual bases during the festive season break, with the team re-assembling on January 4, 2006.

At this stage the Vodacom Stormers are looking to take part in two friendly matches before their first league fixture against the Cats at Ellis Park on February 11, with only the won against the Bulls confirmed at present.

Tickets for this match will only go on sale in 2006, date and ticket prices will be confirmed shortly.