Siya Kolisi latest | Wife Rachel Kolisi’s ‘heart heavy’ at leaving WP

Siya Kolisi’s decision to part way with Western Province Rugby after spending his entire 11-year career to date in the Cape has left his wife, Rachel Kolisi, with a “heavy heart”.

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It was confirmed on Sunday that Siya Kolisi had decided to leave WP and Stormers, presumably for the Sharks, although the statement issued by the Cape union didn’t make mention of that fact.

Springbok 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning skipper Siya Kolisi has been linked to a move to the Sharks ever since American consortium MVM Holdings took a majority stake in the KwaZulu-Natal union in early 2021 having failed to negotiate a similar deal with WP Rugby.

Siya Kolisi has strong ties as a client of MVM Holdings’ agency Roc Nation.

Kolisi played 116 Super Rugby matches for the Stormers and 50 Tests for the Springboks while calling Newlands his home.

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Rachel Kolisi took to her Instagram account on Sunday to post several pictures of her husband and their family in WP / Stormers colours and at Newlands.

She wrote a lengthy tribute piece detailing her love for the game, the tough season, making hard decisions and reminding all of the qualities Siya possesses.

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I can’t believe I’m even doing this post. My heart is so heavy

I have been a Stormer since I discovered my love for the game. From once only being able to afford the R50 standing tickets to watching games in fancy boxes and lounges, to have my children run on the beloved newlands field after every game, how crazy life can be.

Every injury, every loss, every victory, every sacrifice, every memory the many tears, and many laughs I will cherish them all. Because we learnt from the bad and hold close the good.

It has been a tough season for us personally, having to make really big and hard decisions, but change is always inevitable.

In all of this, one thing I have been reminded of. Siya’s character is like no one else I’ve ever known. He remained kind and respectful in moments he had every reason not to. He has lead this team in more ways than some will ever know. He has been a mentor, and listener, he has paved a path for the many that will follow. I can’t put into words how proud I am of him.

This team not only brought us beautiful memories but friends who became family.

A big piece of our hearts will remain with the faithful.

Thank you Jesus.

Got my 6

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