Bok and Italy pair released from contracts by Benetton

Benetton have confirmed that both Luca Morisi and Andries Coetzee have both been been granted an early release from their contracts by mutual consent.

Both players were contracted to the green-and-white club until 30 June 2023.

General manager Antonio Pavanello: “By mutual agreement we concluded the contracts of Morisi and Coetzee a year in advance. We are talking about two fantastic guys from a human point of view who probably in the season just ended, for different reasons, were not lucky enough to find ample space and continuity.”

Arriving in Treviso in 2011 from the Crusaders Rugby as permit player, Morisi spent 11 seasons in green-and-white, making 91 appearances and scoring six goals.

“My family and I will always be grateful to Treviso for the way I was welcomed and for giving me unforgettable emotions, true and rare friendships. After seeing so many friends leave, my turn has also come. I leave with a peaceful heart, hoping to leave a good memory in the hearts of the fans and the city. Thank you for everything, Treviso will be my home forever and I will return for sure in the future to help my family grow” the Italian centre said.

Former Springboks fullback Andries Coetzee, who arrived in Treviso last summer from the Japanese club of Kintetsu Liners, is also leaving. He made nine appearances for Benetton in a season that was hampered by injury.

“After a positive start to the year for me, unfortunately I had to struggle with a knee injury that made it difficult for me to get back into shape. For me and my family it is very sad to leave Treviso because it is a lovely place to live and we are happy to have enjoyed every moment. We will always keep this city close to our hearts and hope to return someday.

“As for the team, I think we’ve had a good season and I think the team really has a lot of potential. To the fans, a huge thank you for making home games so special. When I look back on my season here at Benetton, I will always remember the voices of our fans screaming “Lions”. I wish the best to my fantastic teammates, people I will be able to consider as friends for life. Thank you very much to the club and to all those who contributed to making this opportunity a reality, in particular the general manager Pavanello and the team manager Ceccato who made me and my family feel at home ”