Stellenbosch FC have bid farewell to right-back Deano van Rooyen after he completed his transfer to Soweto giants Orlando Pirates.

Van Rooyen joined the club as a teenager and made his debut as a substitute at the age of 19 back in 2016.

The Stellies-born defender went on to spend eight seasons with the club, making 134 appearances across all competitions for the Maroons, scoring three goals, and registering a further eight in the process.

He has since parted ways with the club after joining the Buccaneers on a three-year contract with the option to extend it for a further two-years.

“It has been a privilege to watch Deano grow over the last eight years from a young and hopeful talent into a household name in Stellenbosch,” Rob Benadie, Stellenbosch FC CEO, said in a statement.

“To see a local player break through the ranks and become a respected leader on the pitch and in our community has been a source of great pride for all associated with the Club.

“While we are sad to see him leave, we are immensely grateful for his contributions and proud of all he has achieved and wish him nothing but success in his future endeavours.”