Andrew Kolbe, the father of South African rugby star Cheslin Kolbe, has opened up about his son’s remarkable rise to rugby stardom, detailing the role he played in supporting and guiding him throughout his journey. In a recent Jingle Oats advertisement, Andrew shared the story of how his son worked tirelessly to achieve his dream of playing for the Springboks, a goal he had set for himself from a young age. As a former rugby player himself, having played for Hands & Hearts and Tygerberg during his youth, Andrew passed on his knowledge of the game to Cheslin, helping him navigate the challenges that come with pursuing a career in professional sports.
Although the Kolbe family wasn’t wealthy, Andrew emphasized how important it was to provide the best possible support for his children. He ensured that he attended Cheslin’s training sessions and games, offering guidance and encouragement at every step. Andrew’s devotion to his son’s career was evident when he spoke about the emotional moment in 2018 when Rassie Erasmus called Cheslin up to the national team, making Andrew proud and overwhelmed with emotion. “It gave me goosebumps,” he said, reflecting on how Cheslin had finally reached his dream of representing South Africa.
Cheslin’s dedication paid off when he played a crucial role in helping the Springboks win the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, marking a significant milestone in his career. On his birthday this year, Cheslin took a moment to express his gratitude to his father, praising him for the unwavering effort and love he put into being a great father and mentor. This father-son bond, built on hard work, dedication, and a shared passion for rugby, has been central to Cheslin’s journey to becoming one of the top rugby players in the world today.
