salifemag
- Jun 24, 2020

ONE-ON-ONE WITH THE “SPICY PLUM”, Steven Kitshoff – GENTLE, YET FIERY!

He’s big, he’s bold, he’s brave…. He’s the SPICY PLUM!

Known for his on-field bravado, there’s no doubt that Professional Rugby Player, Steven Kitshoff, is a force to be reckoned with.

But beyond the boots and the ball, is a humble home-body who portraits different attributes as to the ones displayed on the field.

We ‘virtually’ sat down with Steven, who resides in Cape Town with his wife, Aimee, and got to know a side to him that not many may know.

CAPE TOWN

What do you love most about living in the Mother City?

I love the combination of mountain and ocean. I grew up in Cape Town and can’t imagine living anywhere else in SA.

What makes Cape Town "home”?

Cape Town has been my home since I was a kid. I just love the city and the vibe around it.

Where is your favourite Sunday go-to lunch spot or somewhere you like going to hang out?

Camps Bay or the Stellenbosch markets. We just love seeing family and friends for a lunch when the weather is playing along.

What have you been doing to keep busy during the "lockdown”?

I have been studying a short course through Get Smarter and my wife and I have been doing some minor renovation and DIY projects around the apartment.

Where is the first place you will visit once the lockdown is over?

Perhaps a wine farm in Constantia or a road trip/weekend away to Langebaan.

FASHION

How would you define your style?

I would definitely define my style as sporty and casual. I only really wear neutral colours.

Best item of clothing you own?

Pretty much all my Adidas gear and sneakers.

Most cherished item of clothing or fashion accessory you've ever received?

My watch collection.

Who is your style icon and why?

The Rock – He is the epitome of “Sporty and casual”.

If you could raid anyone's closet, who would it be?

Not sure, there’s not many people my size haha, but probably Tom Hardy.

Favourite clothing item you've recently bought?

Might sound funny but I’m in love with my Pullin briefs. They’re super comfortable.

Sneakers or flip-flops?

Both! Comfort is key haha.

STEVEN

What is one thing people don't know about you?

I’m obsessed with golf...

What is one goal you have set for yourself this year that you hope to achieve?

To buy an Investment property, and get my “side-hustle” off the ground.

What motto or words do you live by?

Something I heard long ago and then read again in a book I'm currently reading which has always stuck with me. “Hard work will always beat talent if talent doesn’t work hard enough"

Besides rugby, do you have any other hobbies?

Golf, and studying a property course. I also love outdoor activities such as wakeboarding.

Favourite song to workout to?

I am really enjoying all our South African artists at the moment, so it’s quite a mixture of songs.

RUGBY

If you could play any other professional sport, and excel at it, which sport would it be and why?

Golf or Cricket. Cricket I enjoyed as a kid, and currently I love golf.

In your opinion, what does it take to be a professional rugby player?

Rugby is an incredible career to have but the sport requires a lot of sacrifice, dedication and hard work. Being away from home for months at a time is demanding, and there is also the fear of massive setbacks when you get injured.

In your sporting career, you get to meet a wide variety of people. Who was your most memorable?

Meeting President Cyril Ramaphosa, as well as Prince Harry, was absolutely amazing; and getting to spend time with Johan Rupert were specific moments I’ll never forget.

Which teammate in the Stormers team do you look up to the most and why?

Pieter-Steph du Toit - it’s just incredible as to what he has achieved in his rugby career. I admire his work rate on the field.

Who has played a big impact in your rugby career and why?

Tiaan Liebenberg played a massive role in the beginning of my career, and recently Rassie and Jacques’ preparation and rugby focus has been inspiring.