Kenya’s rugby landscape has long been a breeding ground for remarkable talent, but few have demonstrated the versatility, dedication, and impact of John Okoth. The Nakuru RFC star has become a pivotal figure in Kenyan rugby, having played for the U20 side Chipu, the 15’s side Simbas, and now representing the nation on the global stage with Shujaa. Following the Kenya 7s national team’s participation in the Paris Olympics, where they finished ninth, Okoth has taken time to analyze the team’s performance and highlight key areas for improvement as they look toward future competitions.
Shujaa’s ninth-place finish, while respectable given the intense competition at the Olympics, has left the team with a burning desire to achieve more. For Okoth, the Olympics provided a crucial learning experience. “When you play against big teams, it teaches you that there is no room for errors. Teams are fast and capitalize on any mistakes you make. We have to improve on our kickoffs and minimize handling errors. Our game awareness also needs improvement. Olympics is the highest stage that attracts the crème de la crème of the world. It is a privilege to compete but requires a strong mindset,” Okoth reflected.
As a player known for his dynamic presence on the pitch, Okoth has become a fan favorite, not only for his impressive skills but also for his infectious energy and enthusiasm, particularly after scoring tries. His post-try celebrations have become a signature of his playing style, endearing him to fans both in Kenya and abroad. One of the standout moments for Okoth during the Olympics was meeting the legendary Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. “I was star-struck,” he admitted. “It was an incredible lifetime experience. I can say it is addictive. Any player would want to do it again and again. I cannot stop reliving the moments.”
The journey to the Olympics was no easy feat for Shujaa, and Okoth was quick to praise the team’s rigorous preparation. Building on their success in the HSBC Challenger Series, where they earned Kenya a return to the World Rugby 7s Series, the team was in peak physical and mental condition heading into the Games. However, Okoth believes that with more time together as a unit, the team can achieve even greater cohesion and success. “We had the best preparation both mentally and physically. However, in future, if we gel more, and play for a long time as a team, it will allow us to understand each other well and play at our best,” he explained.
Okoth also offered a perspective on the team’s performance, noting that while they could have performed better, the squad’s relative inexperience played a significant role. Many of his teammates were making their Olympic debuts, which posed a steep learning curve. Despite this, Okoth remains optimistic about the team’s potential. He views the exposure and experience gained from competing at such a high level as invaluable assets that will benefit the team in future competitions.
“The future is bright,” Okoth asserted, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to grow and succeed. He emphasized that while the Olympic experience was challenging, it was also an opportunity for the players to develop their skills and mental toughness. The lessons learned from playing against the world’s best teams will undoubtedly shape the team’s approach in upcoming tournaments.
John Okoth’s rugby career is a testament to his resilience, versatility, and skill. His journey from the U20 side Chipu to the Kenya Simbas and now Shujaa has been marked by a series of impressive milestones. In 2019, just months after completing his national exams at Nakuru Day High School, Okoth was already vice-captain of Nakuru RFC’s second-string side during the 2018/2019 Eric Shirley Shield season. His talent quickly earned him a place in the Chipu squad, and he made his Kenya Simbas debut in the Elgon Cup against Uganda in Kisumu.
Okoth’s midfield prowess and ability to bring out the best in his teammates have made him a key player in every team he has been part of. Although he was dropped from the Chipu squad that won the Barthes Cup at KCB Ruaraka grounds in 2019, he was selected for the squad that traveled to Brazil for the Junior World Trophy. In Brazil, Okoth donned the number 12 jersey and started every game for the Paul Odera-coached team, showcasing his consistent performance and dedication.
The number 12 jersey in the Kenya Simbas has been worn by some of the most iconic names in Kenyan rugby, including Kelvin “Kichwa” Omiyo, Nick Barasa, Leo Seje, and Darwin Mukidza. Okoth’s inclusion in this elite group underscores his talent and potential to leave a lasting impact on the sport.
As Okoth continues to evolve as a player, his contributions to Kenyan rugby are expected to grow even more significant. His experiences at the Olympics and his reflections on the team’s performance demonstrate a maturity and understanding of the game that will serve him and his teammates well in the years to come. With a strong focus on improvement and a commitment to excellence, John Okoth is poised to become one of Kenya’s most influential rugby players.
Looking ahead, Okoth’s journey in rugby is far from over. As Shujaa prepares for future competitions, fans and teammates alike will be looking to him for leadership, inspiration, and the kind of game-changing performances that have defined his career thus far. For John Okoth, the best is yet to come.
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