Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when it’s to a place that feels like home. But for Springboks star Cheslin Kolbe and his family, farewells are part of the journey as they embark on a new adventure in Japan. After a year back in South Africa, the Kolbes are once again packing their bags, leaving behind cherished memories, friendships, and a sense of belonging. And this is the part most people miss—the emotional toll of a life constantly in motion, all for the love of the game.
Cheslin’s wife, Layla, took to Instagram to share their bittersweet departure, capturing the raw emotions of leaving South Africa. In one heartwarming photo, the family of five stands together, luggage in tow, ready to face the unknown. Another snapshot shows them surrounded by extended family at the airport, a poignant reminder of the loved ones they’re leaving behind. But here’s where it gets controversial—is the nomadic life of a professional athlete’s family a sacrifice worth making?
Layla’s post reflects on their year in South Africa, highlighting the beauty of their time there—friendships, adored teachers, and a sense of home. Yet, she admits, ‘Leaving that behind makes the goodbyes so much heavier.’ Missing family milestones, like weddings and festive seasons, is the harder side of their rugby journey. But she remains grateful for the opportunities it brings. Is it fair to ask families to give up so much for a sport? Or is it a privilege to live a life less ordinary?
As they settle back into Japan, Layla shares the challenges of adjusting to a new time zone, humorously noting their jet-lagged midnight hunger pangs. ‘God bless another season in Japan,’ she writes, embracing the chaos with grace.
The Kolbes’ journey hasn’t gone unnoticed. Fans and friends flooded their social media with messages of support, thanking them for their sacrifices and wishing them well. One fan even expressed disbelief at the thought of not seeing them in South Africa again. But what does this constant moving do to a family’s sense of identity and belonging? Is it a price worth paying for a career in rugby?
Cheslin’s new chapter sees him joining the Tokyo Sungoliath in the NTT Japan Rugby League One, now in its fifth season. The 2025–26 season, kicking off in December 2025, promises intense competition with play-offs and relegation rounds. But amidst the excitement, there’s a darker side—natural disasters. Shortly after their arrival, a 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck Japan, with tremors felt in Tokyo. Layla quickly reassured her 119,000 Instagram followers of their safety, but the incident raises questions: How do families cope with the added stress of living in a region prone to such events?
From France to Japan, Cheslin’s career continues to take him—and his family—across the globe. Their adventure is just beginning, but it’s not without its challenges. As we follow their journey, let’s ask ourselves: What would we sacrifice for our dreams? And at what point does the cost become too high? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you think the Kolbes’ lifestyle is a dream or a daunting sacrifice?
