Former Springbok lock Stephan Lewies says he is returning to South Africa a changed man after bringing the curtain down on a memorable seven-year chapter with Harlequins.
The 34-year-old made his final appearance for the English club in their 38-31 victory over Northampton Saints at The Stoop, ending a journey that began with little more than a few bags and plenty of uncertainty.
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Now Sharks-bound, Lewies admitted his departure was filled with emotion.
“It’s an unbelievable feeling of gratitude,” he said after his final match.
Lewies had to endure a frustrating final season, with injuries restricting his involvement. He had not played since suffering an injury against Bayonne in December before making one last appearance in Quins colours.
“The last three years have been really tough with injuries,” he said.
“I wish I could have given the jersey a lot more, but I feel like I’ve emptied the tank, whether it was on the pitch or off the pitch. I gave it my all and I hope the fans and the players felt the effort I tried to give.”
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While injuries tested him, Lewies believes his time in England helped shape him both as a player and as a person.
“I came here with a few suitcases and a girlfriend. I leave with a wife and a kid,” he said.
“It has been a time of growth for me and for my family.”
And although his next chapter will be back in South Africa with the Sharks, Lewies says one thing will never change.
“It’s such a brilliant club with so much history,” he said.
“I’ll be a Quin for the rest of my life.”
Photo: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
The post Lewies on Quins exit: I emptied the tank appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Former Springbok lock Stephan Lewies says he is returning to South Africa a changed man after bringing the curtain down on a memorable seven-year chapter with Harlequins.
The post Lewies on Quins exit: I emptied the tank appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
