Former Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu Defender Wayde Jooste Joins Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch FC have confirmed the arrival of experienced South African defender Wayde Jooste, adding further depth and leadership to their squad ahead of the new Betway Premiership campaign.
The 34-year-old joins the Cape Winelands outfit boasting a wealth of top-flight experience, having made over 200 senior appearances during spells with Bloemfontein Celtic, Golden Arrows, Highlands Park, Orlando Pirates, Maritzburg United and AmaZulu.
Jooste is also an established international, and was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that finished runners-up at the 2024 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN)—a tournament that further underlined his consistency and professionalism at national level.
Speaking after his unveiling, Jooste admitted the move was an easy decision.
“Stellenbosch is a club I’ve admired for a long time,” he said. “They’ve been doing exceptional work over the last few seasons, and to now be part of that journey is very special to me.
“When Coach Steve called and asked if I’d be interested, I don’t think he even finished the sentence before I said yes. I’ve been praying for the right opportunity, and something like this was impossible to turn down. I feel honoured and privileged to join the club.”
Jooste arrives as a free agent after leaving AmaZulu FC at the end of June, following a major squad overhaul that saw 16 players released despite Usuthu finishing sixth last season under Arthur Zwane. During his final campaign in KwaZulu-Natal, the dependable defender featured in 22 matches across all competitions.
After departing AmaZulu, Jooste went on to represent South Africa at CHAN 2024, staged in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, before securing his move to Stellenbosch.
The seasoned right-back could make his competitive debut for Steve Barker’s side when Stellenbosch return to league action against Sekhukhune United on 20 January 2026, as the club continues to build on its recent domestic success.