Namibian international re-signs with Seattle after All-MLR First XV season

Namibian international Divan Rossouw is all set for a third season in Major League Rugby, with the Seattle Seawolves re-signing a key member of their roster for 2026. Seattle described Rossouw as “a proven game-breaker” in their announcement, signalling the significance of this deal.

Rossouw spent three Super Rugby seasons with the Bulls before joining another South African club, the Lions, for the 2021 United Rugby Championship. The 29-year-old debuted for the Seawolves in MLR in 2024 and has gone on to make 35 appearances for the franchise.

In 2024, Rossouw started 18 of 19 matches for the Seawolves as they charged towards the MLR championship game. The MLR rookie scored six tries as Seattle qualified for the playoffs, losing 20-11 to the New England Free Jacks in the big dance.

Rossouw was picked in the All-MLR Second XV after finishing with the second most running metres out of any player that season, but rose to new heights in 2025. The utility back started in all 17 appearances this year at either centre or fullback, earning All-MLR First XV selection.

The second-year MLR talent was rewarded with prestigious honours, including the Seattle Seawolves 2025 Coaches’ Player of the Year. Rossouw had been named in the official MLR Team of the Week on four occasions during the regular season.

“Divan is a gem of a player – one every coach wants to have in their team. He consistently delivers quality performances, brings energy, honesty, and a hunger to win,” Seawolves head coach Allen Clarke said.

“His impact on the team goes way beyond match day — his work ethic, his standards, and the way he connects with the squad make us better. We’re delighted he and his wife Lindi will continue their journey with the Seawolves.”

Rossouw played three matches for Namibia at Men’s Rugby World Cup 2023 in France, including a start at fullback against Italy in the first round. He started on the wing against the All Blacks in Toulouse, before shifting to the bench against France.

As Namibia looked to qualify for the upcoming World Cup in Australia, Rossouw started crucial matches against Belgium and Samoa in Dubai. Unfortunately for Namibia, Samoa secured the 24^th and final qualification place at the 2027 World Cup.

With the Seawolves, Rossouw’s career-best season in 2025 MLR began at fullback away to the San Diego Legion. That was Rossouw’s first of 14 80-minute appearances that season, with the last coming against the Utah Warriors in the Conference semi-finals.

Rossouw scored tries against New England, the Chicago Hounds, NOLA Gold, the Legion, two in as many matches against Rugby Football Club Los Angeles, and a double against Anthem Rugby Carolina during the regular season.

“Grateful to have re-signed with the Seawolves, a club that has welcomed us with open arms,” Rossouw reflected.

“Looking forward to making this the most successful season yet and continuing to build the Seawolves legacy by bringing home another championship.”