Christopher “Chippy” Solomon. (Photo: DHL Stormers)
The DHL Stormers and the wider rugby community of the Western Cape were plunged into mourning following the sudden death of their team manager Christopher “Chippie” Solomon on Saturday morning.
Solomon is remembered by the DHL Stormers as a “respected educator, administrator and dedicated family man” and has left a deep impression on players, coaches and colleagues over a long and meaningful career.
He leaves behind his wife, Pearl, and children, Nina and Chad. Within the Stormers structure he was also known as a father figure, with many players knowing him as “Uncle Chippie”.
The DHL Stormers says in its statement that Solomon has served as team manager of the DHL Stormers since 2004 and during that time he was involved in more than 350 matches. His presence on the sidelines became a hallmark of the team over 21 seasons.
Born in Newlands and raised in Bontheuwel, Solomon began his career as a teacher, coach and principal at Westridge High School in Mitchells Plain before moving into rugby administration.
Stromer supporters (Photo: Hansie Linde)
As a player, he stood out as a hooker and loose forward and represented Western Province Schools.
Johan le Roux, the chief executive of Stormers Rugby, said rugby had lost a giant. “Chippie brought passion to everything he did and represented the values of our sport”.
John Dobson, Stormers’ director of rugby, described the news as devastating. “Chippie was a remarkable man who was so much more than just a team manager. He was synonymous with our team and proudly represented us around the world. The deep connection he had with players and staff was particularly meaningful.”