In just eight years, Stellies have captured hearts: 'This club means a lot to the community'

Stellenbosch FC are on the brink of making history as they prepare to take on Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final at a packed Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

Remarkably, the club did not exist just over a decade ago. In 2016, Stellenbosch acquired the National First Division status from Vasco da Gama, marking the start of their journey by relocating and renaming the team.

In just eight years, Stellenbosch FC has surpassed all expectations. After an initial struggle to find their feet in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), the club’s well-crafted plans and commitment have paid off.

Over the past three seasons, Stellies have consistently finished in the top eight, with last season marking a turning point. They secured third place in the league, qualified for the CAF Confederation Cup, and, most notably, lifted their first major trophy - the Carling Knockout Cup.

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Sage Stephens, 32, joined Stellenbosch in 2020 after stints with Moroka Swallows, AmaZulu and Cape Town City, but his time with the Maroons has been a unique chapter in his career.

Now in his fourth year with the club, the seasoned goalkeeper understands that Stellies operate differently from other PSL teams.

From their structured long-term vision to their player development focus, Stellenbosch has carved out a distinct identity, something Stephens has come to appreciate during his years in the Cape Winelands.

When attending the funeral of former teammate Oswhin Andries, who was stabbed to death at a local tavern in Klapmuts on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, Stephens realised just how much the club means to the community.

"From my journey when I got here, I've always said -