‘A giant of the game’: Chippie Solomon laid to rest

Chippie Solomon

Cape Town – Christopher “Chippie” Solomon, a revered figure in the Western Cape and Stormers rugby, was laid to rest in Kuils River on Tuesday, following an emotional funeral attended by players, coaches and dignitaries.

Solomon, the long-serving DHL Stormers team manager from 2004 until his death, oversaw more than 350 matches and was widely regarded as a “giant of the game”, SABC News reported.

His passing sent shockwaves through the Western Cape rugby community, with Stormers Rugby CEO Johan le Roux describing his loss as deeply felt across the sport.

“Chippie brought passion to everything he did and embodied the values of our sport. Our thoughts are with his family and all those whose lives he touched over what was an incredible career.

“Our supporters will all miss his familiar presence and the entire rugby community is in mourning over this sad loss,” he said.

Solomon was remembered not only for his administrative role but as a father figure to many players, affectionately known as “Uncle Chippie,” who offered guidance and support to generations within the Stormers setup.

According to a report by keo.o.za, tributes poured in from across the rugby world, with former players and coaches, including Rassie Erasmus and John Dobson, highlighting his profound influence and unique presence in the team over more than two decades.

“Global and local tributes have flooded social media since his passing a week ago at the age of 64, but on Tuesday morning his Stormers player family, led by Hanyani Shimange and Deon Fourie, and his family said their farewells,” the report said.

His funeral, granted provincial honours, reflected both the scale of his legacy and the authenticity he was known for.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde also paid tribute, announcing that flags across the province were flown at half-mast in Solomon’s honour.

“Today, we pause in quiet honour. Flags across the Western Cape fly at half-mast in honour of Christopher ‘Chippie’ Solomon – a life defined by service, leadership, and impact. May we carry forward his example. Rest in peace, Uncle Chippie,” he said.

The ceremony echoed the spirit of the iconic Western Province chant “WP Jou Lekker Ding” — a phrase meaning “you beauty” — capturing the pride and affection felt for Solomon.

Born in Newlands and raised in Bonteheuwel, Solomon was a former player, educator, coach and headmaster at Westridge High School in Mitchell’s Plain before moving into rugby administration.

Over his career, he also served as a coach and selector for SA Schools and held leadership roles in club rugby, including as Life President of Kuilsriver Rugby Club.

Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson described him as “a remarkable man” whose connection with players and staff was deeply meaningful, adding that his passion, professionalism and loyalty defined his legacy.

“This is devastating news for so many of us. Chippie was a remarkable man who was so much more than just a Team Manager,” stormers.co.za quoted him as saying.

“He has been synonymous with our team for so long and represented us with pride all over the world. The deep connection he held with players, coaches and his staff at the High Performance Centre was incredibly meaningful.

Solomon is survived by his wife Pearl and children Nina and Chad.

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