SEATTLE, WA—The Seattle Seawolves opened their 2026 preseason with a 45–14 result against DHL Stormers XXIII at DHL Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa, closing out a two-week international training block designed to accelerate team cohesion and match readiness ahead of the Major League Rugby season.

The fixture represented more than just a preseason result. It marked a rare international opportunity for the Seawolves, stepping onto the pitch against a Stormers side that has competed together for months at the professional level. In contrast, Seattle entered the match having spent just two weeks together as a group. Despite that difference, the Seawolves showed they could compete, matching physicality and intensity for long stretches in a demanding, high-tempo environment.

Seattle started with intent and composure, earning early momentum through a well-executed attacking sequence that set the tone. Davy Coetzer initiated the movement with a controlled chip kick, Rufus McLean reacted quickly to keep the play alive with a precise grubber, and Divan Rossouw broke through the defensive line before delivering an offload in contact. Micheal Hand II finished the sequence, giving the Seawolves a 7–0 lead and rewarding the team’s early pressure.

The Stormers responded with sustained possession and territorial control, forcing Seattle into extended defensive stretches. For much of the first half, the Seawolves defended deep in their own half but remained composed, showing resilience and structure under pressure. The hosts eventually took a 17–7 lead into halftime, but Seattle’s defensive effort and willingness to compete in contact remained a clear positive.

The Seawolves responded early in the second half with improved attacking structure and tempo. A strong passage of play resulted in a second try, with André Warner finishing to close the gap to 17–14. The sequence reflected the team’s ability to adjust, find rhythm, and create opportunities against a high-level opponent.

Key moments shifted momentum in favor of the Stormers as the match progressed. A yellow card period allowed the hosts to extend their lead, and Seattle was unable to convert pressure during key attacking opportunities, including a threatening sequence inside the Stormers’ 5-meter area. The Stormers capitalized on those moments, using their experience and physicality at the set piece and breakdown to create separation in the final stages.

Despite the scoreline, the match achieved its primary objective. Every available Seawolves player took the pitch, creating a valuable development opportunity across the entire squad. Rookies and college draftees earned meaningful minutes alongside experienced veterans in a true international setting.

That opportunity was especially significant for local Washington products Calvin Liluamaga, the Seawolves’ 2025 first overall college draft pick, and Tiai Vavao, the Seawolves’ 2026 first overall college draft pick. Both players stepped onto the pitch in Cape Town and competed against international-caliber opposition in their first professional match environment. The experience represents a major milestone in their development and a rare opportunity that few players receive this early in their careers.

The two-week training block in South Africa played a key role in the performance. While the Stormers entered the match with months of continuity, the Seawolves showed cohesion, connection, and belief throughout the match. For extended periods, Seattle went toe to toe with a side operating at a high professional standard, reinforcing the progress made during the trip.

Head Coach Allen Clarke said, "I'm proud of the team's character and resilience tonight. For 50 minutes, we went toe to toe with a quality Stormers XV. The game provided glimpses of what we’re capable off with quality ball, and highlighted areas where we need to improve quickly. What's most important is we believe in what we're building and we progress from here. This was a physical & high tempo game that will make us better. We'll learn from it, and keep moving forward together towards the start of the season."

The Seawolves now return to Seattle to complete preseason preparations, hosting the Hartford Harpooners at Starfire Stadium on March 28 before opening the 2026 Major League Rugby season at home on April 3 against Old Glory DC.