New Stellenbosch FC signing Ashley Du Preez says he always believed he would one day return to the club.

The 29-year-old started his professional career at Stellies in 2016 and went on to feature 98 times in all competitions.

He spent six-years at the club before he joined Kaizer Chiefs before the start of the 2022-23 season, where he spent four years before returning to Stellies for the 2026-27 season.

Du Preez says rejoining the club where his professional journey began is a special feeling, as he prepares to represent his hometown once again.

“I always knew that I would come back to Stellenbosch,” Du Preez told his club’s official website.

“It’s great to be back where I grew up and at the Club where it all started for me, and to be part of the Stellenbosch family again.

“The community knows me well and has supported me since the start of my professional career, so being a local player and representing the Club again is a huge honour and privilege for me. It’s an amazing feeling to be back.”