The Western Cape and broader South African rugby community are in mourning following the passing of Christopher ‘Chippie’ Solomon on Saturday morning. Solomon, who served as the Stormers team manager from 2004 until his death, was an unmistakable and revered presence on the touchline, overseeing more than 350 matches across 21 seasons through the team’s many highs and lows.

Known affectionately as ‘Uncle Chippie’ by generations of players, coaches, learners, and staff whose lives he profoundly impacted, Solomon was much more than a team manager. He acted as a father figure within Stormers Rugby, providing invaluable guidance and support. His vibrant personality, boundless energy, and selfless work ethic defined him. He was deeply passionate about the people around him and represented the Stormers and the Western Cape region with consummate professionalism, travelling the world with the team.

Born in Newlands and raised in Bontheuwel, Solomon had a distinguished career prior to his extensive tenure with the Stormers. He was a respected educator, serving as a teacher, coach, and eventually headmaster at Westridge High School in Mitchell’s Plain. In his playing days, he was a fearsome hooker and loose forward, representing Western Province Schools under the banner of the SA Rugby Union. His commitment to rugby extended to club level, where he was the Life President of Kuilsriver Rugby Club. Before joining the Stormers senior team in 2004, he was appointed as a coach and selector for the SA Schools team and managed various junior teams.

Tributes have poured in from across the rugby world, highlighting Solomon’s immense impact. Stormers Rugby CEO Johan le Roux described him as a “giant of the game,” emphasizing that “Chippie brought passion to everything he did and embodied the values of our sport.” Le Roux added that supporters would miss his familiar presence, with the entire rugby community mourning the sad loss.

Director of Rugby John Dobson echoed these sentiments, stating there would never be another character quite like Chippie Solomon. “This is devastating news for so many of us. Chippie was a remarkable man who was so much more than just a Team Manager,” Dobson said. He noted Solomon’s deep connection with players, coaches, and staff at the High Performance Centre, and praised his impeccable arrangements during a recent trip to France, where “Chippie outdid himself with every detail.”

SA Rugby president Mark Alexander led the national rugby body in mourning, calling Solomon’s passing a “heavy blow to everyone in South African rugby.” Alexander commended Solomon’s “unwavering dedication” and the humility and commitment with which he guided and supported players and colleagues throughout his long and distinguished career. He acknowledged the deep personal bonds Solomon fostered within the game, making his presence on the touchline one of the most familiar sights in South African rugby.

Christopher ‘Chippie’ Solomon is survived by his wife, Pearl, and children, Nina and Chad. On behalf of the SA Rugby family and the Stormers community, heartfelt condolences have been extended to his loved ones, remembering a man who was a loyal servant of the game and whose legacy will continue to inspire.