Stefan Coetzee signs one-year deal with Newcastle Red Bulls

South African full-back Stefan Coetzee has signed a one-season deal with Newcastle Red Bulls.

The 27-year-old arrives after a standout Currie Cup campaign with the Pumas, where he was named Player of the Season. He is set to link up with his new teammates in the coming weeks.

Director of rugby Steve Diamond welcomed the addition, describing Coetzee as a dynamic ball carrier and strong under the high ball.

“Stefan is a very dynamic ball carrier who is good under the high ball," he told the club's official website.

“He’s gone well for the Pumas in the Currie Cup, he’s keen to learn and he’ll give us some depth at full-back as we move into the Gallagher PREM season.”

Born in Aggeneys in South Africa’s Northern Cape and raised near Springbok, Coetzee progressed through the Blue Bulls’ under-19 and under-21 sides while completing his degree at the University of Pretoria.

Standing at 6 ft 5 in, he is known for his aerial ability and long kicking game. While his main position is full-back, he is comfortable on the wing and considers himself a versatile option.

“I was born in a small mining town called Aggeneys in the Northern Cape, and I grew up in a nearby town called Springbok. My nickname is actually ‘Bok’ due to the town that I’m from.

“My main position is full-back and I also like to play on the wing, but I’m a utility player and I’m happy to go wherever the coaches tell me. If they put me in at prop I’d even give it a go!

“I pride myself on my aerial skills. With being a taller guy I can jump really high, so that’s a big part of my game, and then I’d also say my long kicking would be a strength.”

Newcastle Red Bulls will host Saracens on 26 September in the opening round of the Gallagher Premiership.