SA Rugby leads tributes following untimely passing of beloved Stormers manager
· The South African
SA Rugby president Mark Alexander led the rugby world in mourning the passing of Christopher ‘Chippie’ Solomon on Saturday.
Solomon served the Stormers as team manager for 21 seasons. He died on Saturday morning, leaving the Western Cape rugby community in shock.
Visit afnews.co.za for more information.
Alexander said the news came as a heavy blow to everyone in South African rugby: ”It is with great sadness that we learnt of the passing of Christopher ‘Chippie’ Solomon this morning,” he said.
‘CHIPPIE’ WAS A LOYAL SERVANT OF THE GAME
Solomon joined the Stormers setup in 2004 and never looked back. He managed the team through more than 350 matches over two decades. Alexander said Solomon approached every one of those days with the same quiet dedication.
“Since 2004, Chippie served with unwavering dedication as manager of the Stormers,” Alexander said.
He added that Solomon guided and supported players and colleagues with humility and commitment. Those qualities defined Solomon throughout his long and distinguished career.
ALEXANDER: MORE THAN A MANAGER
Solomon was born in Newlands and raised in Bontheuwel before becoming a teacher and headmaster. He later moved into rugby administration, eventually taking charge of the Stormers senior team. Players and staff knew him affectionately as ‘Uncle Chippie’.
Alexander acknowledged the deep personal bonds Solomon formed within the game. Solomon gave generously of himself to players, coaches and colleagues at every level. His presence on the touchline became one of the most familiar sights in South African rugby.
CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY
Alexander extended heartfelt condolences to Solomon’s wife Pearl and children Nina and Chad.
“On behalf of the SA Rugby family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pearl, Nina, Chad, his other loved ones and the Stormers community,” he said.
Alexander closed his tribute with a promise that Solomon’s contribution would endure.
“His legacy of service and devotion to rugby will never be forgotten,” he said. “May his family find comfort in knowing his impact lives on in all of us.”