Episode 97: “I’ll Always Be a Cape Town Guy!” – John Dobson on Loyalty, Legacy & the Epic North–South Rivalry!

The North–South rivalry lit up the Lekker Rugby Pod as Stormers Head Coach John Dobson sat down with Harry Jones and MW Welman for what might be our best episode yet. Harry brought the Cape Town fanboy energy, MW played the northern counterpunch, and Dobbo delivered — opening up on life as one of South Africa’s top rugby coaches, the unique rugby culture of the Western Cape, and why the Stormers’ Champions Cup dream is locked on for 2029.Dobson reflects on career-defining moments, from his deep ties to UCT and the Cape Flats, to why he’s committed to staying local rather than chasing overseas coaching roles. He lifts the lid on the tactics, talent, and team-building that have made the Stormers a force in the United Rugby Championship — and explains what truly separates them from their fierce rivals, the Bulls. With stories ranging from pub crawls to player psychology, hydration science to tactical substitutions, Dobbo shows why he’s one of the most thoughtful and candid minds in rugby today.