For Sharks rugby player Lionel Cronje and his wife Teagan, Christmas is a celebration of family – something they are both profoundly grateful for.
Down-to-earth and warm, the Cronjes are the sweetest family. On meeting them, it’s clear that Jordan (2) and Brooklyn (18 months) are the centre of their parents’ world. Teagan and Lionel’s story began in Queenstown in the Eastern Cape, where they both grew up. They met for the first time when they were 11 years old, and shared their first kiss in high school. But it wasn’t romance that kept them close back then, but a true friendship. They were inseparable, with Lionel, a boarder, often spending weekends at Teagan’s home. Years later when they were both living in Bloemfontein, they reconnected, rekindling their friendship into something deeper.
THE RUGBY ROLLER COASTER
Lionel’s journey as a professional rugby player has been nothing short of an adventure. Starting his career with the Cheetahs, Lionel’s contract and commitments took him around South Africa and overseas. From the Bulls and Lions in South Africa to the Brumbies in Australia, and eventually to Japan’s rugby circuit, the couple often faced long-distance challenges.
Each move was exciting yet demanding, especially when it came to putting down roots. Japan, where they lived for five years, turned out to be a pivotal chapter in their lives. Living in Nagoya, Teagan took up teaching at an international school, immersing herself in Japanese culture while Lionel pursued his rugby career. Reflecting on their time there, Teagan says, “It was honestly the most incredible five years of my life.”
BUILDING A FAMILY
Behind the scenes of this adventurous lifestyle was another struggle – one that would test their resilience as a couple. Teagan and Lionel faced a long journey with infertility, enduring numerous medical treatments and setbacks over five years. After rounds of surgeries, hormone treatments, and IVF attempts, they welcomed their son, Jordan, a miracle after years of waiting. Soon after his birth, Lionel was offered an opportunity to join the Sharks and they moved back home. Just five months later, they received another surprise – a second pregnancy! Their daughter, Brooklyn, was born just 14 months after Jordan, bringing even more joy (and sleepless nights) into their lives.
Teagan, who openly shares her infertility journey, wants others who are struggling to feel understood and supported. “So often, people share their infertility stories only once they have a baby. I wanted to share our story while we were still in it, to help those who feel isolated in that struggle,” she shares.
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS AND THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
The Cronjes have now settled on the North Coast and have found a community where they can enjoy family life and finally lay down roots. For Christmas, Teagan and Lionel cherish the traditions they’ve created together, like decorating their Christmas tree on the first day of December and having Lionel place the star. This year, they’re also introducing a new tradition with their children – gathering toys and clothes to donate at the start of the holiday season. “I want my children to understand that Christmas is about giving back,” says Teagan.
With a full house and hearts, Teagan and Lionel now focus on enjoying the simple moments with family and friends. “It’s hard and wonderful all at once,” Teagan says with a smile, “but being a mom and having these memories with Lionel is everything I hoped for.” They’ll be celebrating Christmas by enjoying a church service, followed by good food and quality time at home.
Text: Jennifer Campbell
Photographs: Shren Media
Makeup: Kylie P Makeup
Location: Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate
