Legacy & Loyalty: A Conversation with Warren Jacobs

Celebrating the heart and history of Stephanian Ottery AFC

Powered by Tradition & Progress

🏟️ Club Legacy & Family Involvement

Q: You’ve been with Stephanian-Ottery since you were young – how has the club evolved over the years from your perspective?

Warren:Well, I wasn't with Stephs since I was young — I've been here my entire life 🤭.Maybe not always at Ottery, but this is where we are now.We started junior practices at a primary school in Hanover Park. At one point, our flagship team trained at a community park.I’ve had the privilege of spending most of my time at Stephanian-Ottery, having what many clubs didn’t — our own facility. And I’m proud to call it home. From FAWP and Athlone District to our merger with Ottery-Sinton and joining Cape District, and now Cape Town Tygerberg, the club has always pushed forward.The introduction of women’s football was a long-awaited move, and the response has been phenomenal. We’re evolving, and the foundation is strong. I look forward to the future, without letting go of our traditions.

Jody, Joe, Warren and Shaun Jacobs

Q: Your father is a life member and your son now plays in the Minis. What does it mean to see three generations of your family connected to the club?

Warren:It’s special. At Stephs, there are many families with generational ties. My father receiving “Life Membership” was the highest honour. He never sought recognition, but it was well deserved.I’m proud to be in the programme handed out that day my picture is there. As a father, I’m proud of my son’s progress. This club is family. That’s why we’ll always be connected, even when we’re no longer playing.

Q: How has your family's legacy influenced your commitment and passion for the game?

Warren:How much time do you have?My father was a role model — a provincial player, a coach, a chairman, a treasurer. He’s still called upon for advice. My late mother was our rock. She supported the club financially and emotionally, welcoming members into our home.Her memory lives on in the hearts of many. My brothers played with heart, served on the executive, and coached.Even my wife wore the Stephs jersey in the ladies’ team. My family revived my passion when I doubted it.There is no legacy without them.

👟 Playing in the Over 40 Team

Q: What’s the dynamic like in the Over 40 team, and how do you keep the competitive spirit alive?

Warren:It’s my first year with the O/40s — and let me tell you, there are some weirdos there 😄.Great bunch of guys. Many of us played together in the top side years ago.We compete, but we also enjoy the game and try not to get injured (speaking to myself here).

Q: Any memorable matches or moments with the Over 40s?

Warren: 2–2 at home vs FN Rangers.But honestly, any match I can play is memorable.And every post-match “feedback session” — some valid points shared there!

🤝 Brotherly Bond

Q: You and Jody play in the same team — what’s it like sharing the field with your brother after all these years?

Warren:Actually, all three of us play in the same team. Shaun’s had a few games in the O/45s.Playing with your brothers? It can get heated. It’s like playing in the TV room again — someone’s getting motivational cursing 😅.We’ve lifted trophies together. I’ve shared the field with them for years, and I hope to keep doing so.

🖋️ Tattoo Story

Q: You’ve got a tattoo on your back — can you share the story behind it?Warren:Not a carbon copy of the Stephs badge, but something personal. My family helped me through everything.The friends I made at the club became family.Stephs has my back — FOR LIFE.

Because THAT’S WHAT STEPHS ARE FOR!

🌱 Looking Ahead

Q: What are your hopes for your son’s journey in the Minis, and how do you see your role in supporting the next generation?Warren:I want him to enjoy the game, give his all, and never give up.If it’s meant for him, with hard work, it will come. My role? To encourage, push, and believe in them.The future is theirs — I’ll be around as long as I can to help them grow.

🙏 Final Thoughts

Thanks for this trip down memory lane.I’m grateful for the opportunity to share why I love this club with our members. It’s important to acknowledge all the families who’ve shaped this club.Reach out to them. Hear their stories. Share them with the current Stephs family.

You don’t know where you’re going, if you don’t know why you’re going.

TRADITION & PROGRESS