Getting to know Steven 'Spicy Plum' Kitshoff: Marriage, kids, Bomb Squad Beer and life after rugby

Amy MacIver interviews Springbok rugby player Steven Kitshoff.

Listen below.

With just days to go until Heritage Day on 24 September, it's a perfect time to reflect on what makes us proudly South African.

Rugby stands out as a powerful symbol of unity in our nation.

Since that historic moment in 1995 when Nelson Mandela and Francois Pienaar lifted the Webb Ellis Trophy, the bond we share through this sport has only deepened, igniting our passion and pride in our green and gold.

More recently, the Springboks triumphed at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, solidifying their status as champions.

They continued their winning streak by defeating the All Blacks for the second consecutive time in the 2024 Castle Lager Rugby Championship, edging out their fierce rivals with a close score of 18-12.

A key contributor to this success is beloved rugby hero, Springbok and Stormers prop Steven Kitshoff aka Spicy Plum.

"The nickname came up during a match and somehow it just stuck."

- Steven Kitshoff, rugby player

Living in Belfast, Ireland

Now back on home soil with his wife, Aimee Kitshoff, after his time with Irish club Ulster, Steven reflects on the experience as truly memorable.

He enjoyed every moment, from bonding with his teammates to indulging in his "body weight in Guinness" while exploring new parts of the world.

Unfortunately, this chapter in their lives was brief; although the 32-year-old double World Cup winner had signed a three-year contract, he returned home after just one year.

"It was a difficult call to make...I'm very happy to be back in Cape Town and rejoin the Stormers."

- Steven Kitshoff, rugby player

Bomb Squad Beer

When Kitshoff isn’t on the field, you’ll often find him and teammate Malcolm Marx enjoying an ice-cold Bomb Squad Beer.

The duo crafted this lager to be easy to drink, embodying the taste of victory with its smooth, crisp flavour and light body.

Just like their dedication on the field, they’ve poured their heart and soul into creating this refreshing brew, perfect for "benching your thirst."

"Getting a bit of off time from rugby gets me to focus on life after rugby and outside of rugby."

- Steven Kitshoff, rugby player

Family life

With both Steven and Aimee thriving in their respective fields, it’s no surprise that they’re not rushing to welcome a mini Kitshoff just yet.

Instead, Steven shares that they are savouring their married life, humorously acknowledging that Aimee is the one in charge.

"She's the big boss."

- Steven Kitshoff, rugby player

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.