The Kenya national men’s sevens team, Shujaa, faced a challenging campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympics, losing all three of their Pool B matches. Despite these setbacks, the team gleaned invaluable insights and lessons that will be crucial for their future endeavors, especially as they prepare for the 2024/2025 HSBC SVNS World Series. Here are five key lessons Shujaa learned from their Olympic experience:
1. A Steep Learning Curve for New Players
The Paris 2024 Olympics were a rigorous introduction for many Shujaa players, most of whom lacked previous tournament experience or HSBC action. Out of the 15 players that traveled to Paris, only Vincent Onyala and Herman Humwa had participated in an Olympic tournament before. Additionally, three players – Tony Omondi, Kevin Wekesa, and reserve Dennis Abukuse – had played in an HSBC SVNS match. This meant that 10 of the players had only ever played at the challenger level.
Facing reigning circuit champions Argentina and world-ranked third Australia in their pool was always going to be a formidable challenge. The team’s inexperience was evident, but this exposure to high-level competition provided a critical reminder of the standards required in sevens rugby. Moving forward, the team will need to build on this experience to better prepare for future tournaments.
2. Adapting to Counter Patrick Odongo’s Pace
Daystar Falcons winger Patrick Odongo, who rose to prominence with his player-of-the-tournament display during the Olympic qualifiers in Zimbabwe and a strong showing in the challenger series in Dubai, found it challenging to replicate his form in Paris. Injuries, including a jawbone injury followed by a knee injury, hampered his performance. Opponents were well-prepared for Odongo, effectively containing his pace. This experience highlighted the need for Odongo to adapt and refine his game to maintain his effectiveness at the top level.
3. Mental Fortitude is Crucial
Shujaa’s campaign underscored the importance of mental fortitude, particularly in the second half of games. The team often lost their composure in critical moments, leading to collapses in the latter stages against Argentina, Australia, and Samoa. In their only win against Uruguay in the ninth-to-12th place playoffs, the team demonstrated resilience and focus, which they will need to replicate consistently. Maintaining mental strength and composure under pressure will be crucial for their success in future tournaments.
4. Expanding Attacking Strategies
Head coach Kevin ‘Bling’ Wambua has done an impressive job since taking over, helping the side qualify for the Olympics and winning promotion back to the topflight of World Sevens Rugby. However, the tournament exposed the need for more varied attacking solutions. During the challenger series, there was an over-reliance on using Odongo’s pace to score. At the Olympics, this strategy was easily countered by opponents, forcing Kenya to rely on the brute strength of players like Kevin Wekesa.
To succeed against high-caliber opposition, Shujaa needs to develop a diverse set of attacking strategies. Coach Wambua has four months to work on these areas before the next season begins, with the national sevens circuit providing an ideal opportunity to test new tactics.
5. Enhancing Skills and Physicality
Shujaa’s performance highlighted areas that need significant improvement, particularly in skill training and physicality. The team struggled with ball handling, stepping, and kicking, often turning over possession in avoidable situations. Their difficulty in winning kick-offs and bypassing counter-racks was evident, especially against Argentina. Enhancing these skills will be essential for the team’s progress.
Additionally, the team needs to improve its physicality to compete effectively against top-tier opponents. Despite coming from a country with a tropical climate, the players seemed affected by the hot-weather conditions. Increasing their physical endurance and strength will be vital to withstand the demands of high-intensity matches.
Conclusion
The Paris 2024 Olympics provided Shujaa with a steep learning curve, but the experience gained will be invaluable as they prepare for the 2024/2025 HSBC SVNS World Series. By focusing on building experience, diversifying their attacking strategies, improving mental fortitude, and enhancing skills and physicality, Shujaa can look forward to a more successful future in international rugby sevens. The lessons learned from their Olympic campaign will serve as a foundation for growth and improvement, paving the way for better performances in upcoming competitions.
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