An independent investigation relating to claims made by Stormers assistant coach Paul Treu has cleared WP Rugby of any wrongdoing.

Treu reportedly submitted a 26-page document detailing his grievances to the union’s board. It contained instances of unfair treatment that Treu believes he was subjected to.

It was also reported that Treu stormed out of a Stormers review meeting and did not get along with fellow assistant Paul Feeney.

However, an independent investigation by legal firm Bowmans found no substance to the allegations of unfair discrimination or unfair labour practices.

According to WP Rugby, the comprehensive final report made no negative or adverse findings against any of its officers, coaches or staff members.

‘After an extensive investigation process that saw 29 associated people interviewed and numerous documents reviewed in this matter, we are pleased that the independent enquiry found that there was no foundation to the allegations,’ said WP Rugby CEO Paul Zacks, adding that WP Rugby’s transformation record is a source of pride.

‘We are eager to put this matter behind us now so we can continue to focus on exceeding all the transformation objectives outlined in SA Rugby’s Strategic Transformation Plan.

‘Despite the favourable findings by the independent investigation in the Paul Treu matter, and the pleasing results in the recent SA Rugby transformation report, we cannot rest on our laurels and will continue to work towards proactively improving transformation within the union as we seek to ensure rugby is a sport for all.’

According to SA Rugby’s most recent strategic transformation plan update, WP Rugby’s track record over the past two years puts them at the forefront of transformation in South African rugby.

In the 2017 and 2018 Super Rugby seasons, the Stormers were more transformed than any other South African franchise, while the same can be said for Western Province in the 2017 and 2018 Currie Cup.

Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images