The late Stormers coach, Christopher ‘Chippie’ Solomon, was not only a rugby fan, but a mentor and leader, as he said himself. Over the years, Chippie had been at the heart of player development and administration for the Stormers. He helped many players to grow, including his son Chad Solomon.
With his untimely death, a video where Solomon once spoke about his approach to life and rugby in general resurfaced. Indeed, the video looked like he knew his time was almost over. He spoke like it was his final words, what he wanted people to remember him for,
CHRSTOPHER SOLOMON’S GOLDEN WORDS THAT LEFT STORMERS FANS EMOTIONAL
Speaking to the Stormers media, Chippie detailed his approach and what he sees in himself.
“First of all, I see myself as a leader, I see myself as a mentor, I am in the business of making my players happy. Every opportunity that I have with my players hasplayers has been a blessing, and I still see it as one. It is, and it has always been a dream of mine to work in sport at this level. ” The journey that I have been through, 20 years as an educator, but in the 20 years, I have exposed myself to rugby at all levels, school level, under 20 level, Under 21 Vodacum Cup, Currie Cup and Super rugby,” he said.
“I think I am blessed because coaches always back me, and they gave me a lot of freedom to do what I thought was best for this team. For me to be here wasn’t easy; it’s a journey, and with that journey come immense sacrifices on behalf of myself, my family, and my coaching staff. You don’t just come here managing the team like the DHL Stormers, which currently is one of the best franchises,” he continued.
“I am blessed to have this opportunity, to share this with you. THANK YOU,” he finished.
DHL STORMERS FANS MOURN CHIPPIE
After DHL Stormers shared Christopher Solomon’s final words, fans mourned him; his words touched them.
@jean_devilliers “GENTLEMEN!!! We have lost a legend💔🙏🕊️”
@jamiehuwroberts “A wonderful man. Rest peacefully, Chippy ❤️”
@brendan.604 “The should name a stand after Chippie Solomon’s at DHL Stadium 🙏❤️”
@robyns26 “He not only made an impact on @dhlstormers but also on a lot of his students’ lives! It was generational, and we are forever grateful!!!! I am grateful ❤️❤️❤️”