‘Chippie’ Solomon served as the Stormers team manager from 2004 until his untimely passing, taking charge of over 350 matches in that time and providing an unmistakeable presence on the touchline through the highs and lows of 21 seasons.
This weekend the Stormers and United Rugby Championship will pay tribute to the memory of Solomon, who was seen as a father figure within Western Cape and SA rugby circles, providing guidance and support to generations of players who all knew him affectionately as ‘Uncle Chippie’.
“Our greatest condolences and sympathy go to his wife, Pearl, and his children Nina and Chad,” the URC shared in a statement. “We wish them huge strength to cope with their loss over the coming months and years but hope they will always find consolation in the impact Chippie made on so many people across so many places.
“This weekend the Stormers Faithful and everyone around the United Rugby Championship will have the opportunity to honour Chippie’s memory with various acts of tribute planned across the round.”
Stormers play Connacht at home on Saturday
A vibrant personality who was passionate about the people around him and was defined by boundless energy and selfless work ethic, Solomon was a invaluable community member who travelled the world with the Stormers and represented the team and people of the region with consummate professionalism.
Director of Rugby John Dobson said that there will 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.
“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.
“We have just come back from a trip to France, which saw Chippie outdo himself with every detail and arrangement running impeccably.
“He will be remembered as a true rugby man, but more importantly as someone who was fiercely loyal and represented his community and family with distinction in all that he did. Chippie was ‘nullis secundis’,” he said.
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