Kenya Sevens assistant coach Louis Khisia has identified a group of young and promising players who have been making significant impacts in the 2024 National Sevens Circuit. As the 2025 World Rugby SVNS Series approaches, Khisia has highlighted the performances of several players who could be pivotal for the Shujaa team in the upcoming international competitions. Among those recognized for their outstanding contributions are Amon Wamalwa, Lucky Dewald (Kenya Harlequin), Jackson Siketa (Kabras Sugar), Javan Otieno (Nakuru RFC), and Beldad Ogeta (Menengai Oilers).
Rising Stars of the National Sevens Circuit
The National Sevens Circuit has always been a fertile ground for discovering new rugby talent in Kenya, and this year has been no different. With several tournaments already completed, a few standout players have caught the attention of the coaching staff, particularly Louis Khisia.
Amon Wamalwa: One of the most promising talents to emerge from the circuit, Wamalwa spent six months honing his skills at the Rhinos High-Performance Training Camp in South Africa. His experience there has paid off, as he has been instrumental in helping his team navigate through the tough competition in the circuit. Wamalwa’s playmaking abilities and tactical awareness make him a key player to watch as he prepares to represent Kenya in the upcoming SVNS Series.
Lucky Dewald (Kenya Harlequin): Dewald has been a standout performer for Kenya Harlequin, with his most notable moment coming during the Kakamega Ingo Sevens, where he scored the winning try that secured victory for his team. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it matters most has made him a vital asset for the Harlequins and a player to watch as he continues to develop his game.
Jackson Siketa (Kabras Sugar): Siketa’s journey has been nothing short of impressive. After representing Kenya at the World Rugby U20 Trophy in Scotland with the Chipu team, Siketa returned to Kabras Sugar, where he quickly made his mark by scoring a hat-trick in the Dala Sevens final. His performance helped Kabras clinch their first-ever Dala Sevens title, and his combination of speed, strength, and agility has made him a standout in the circuit.
Javan Otieno (Nakuru RFC): Otieno has been a consistent performer for Nakuru RFC, showcasing his versatility and reliability on the field. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute both defensively and offensively has earned him recognition from the coaching staff. Otieno’s work ethic and commitment to the game have positioned him as a rising star in the Kenyan rugby scene.
Beldad Ogeta (Menengai Oilers): Ogeta has been instrumental in the success of Menengai Oilers, particularly during the Dala Sevens, where the team reached the final. His explosive speed and ability to break through defensive lines have made him a key player for the Oilers and a potential game-changer for the national team.
The Importance of Competition in Player Development
Louis Khisia expressed his satisfaction with the level of competition in the 2024 National Sevens Circuit, noting that it has been crucial in the development of new talent. The high level of competition not only provides a platform for young players to showcase their skills but also prepares them for the challenges they will face on the international stage.
“It’s been good so far. We have new talent emerging, and we expect more players to put their hands up in the course of the next three legs,” Khisia stated. He emphasized that the circuit is essential for identifying and nurturing players who can contribute to the success of the Kenya Sevens team in future competitions.
Lessons from the Paris Olympics
Drawing from the experiences at the Paris Olympics, Khisia has refined his approach to player selection, with a clear understanding of what is required for Kenya to excel globally. One of the key takeaways from the Olympics was the importance of having forwards who possess both height and bulk, as well as the agility to win kickoff receptions and fulfill their core roles effectively.
“Looking ahead, our forwards need to have that height and bulk. From the experience we had in the Olympics, it was clear that multifaceted forwards like those we faced from Argentina and Australia are crucial,” Khisia explained. This insight has influenced his selection criteria, as he seeks to build a squad that can compete with the best teams in the world.
Preparing for the 2025 World Rugby SVNS Series
With the 2025 World Rugby SVNS Series fast approaching, Khisia is focused on ensuring that the players selected for the Shujaa squad are physically and mentally prepared for the rigors of international competition. He acknowledged that while Kenya has a wealth of rugby talent, succeeding on the global stage requires more than just skill—it demands exceptional physical conditioning and mental toughness.
“As a country, we may have the talent, but the World Rugby SVSN Series stage is very unforgiving. Players called up have to be physically and mentally ready for the tough challenge that awaits them,” Khisia noted. He emphasized that the experience gained from previous competitions has provided valuable insights into areas where the team needs to improve, particularly in terms of strength, conditioning, agility, and endurance.
Building Depth for the National Team
One of the key objectives for Khisia and the Kenya Sevens coaching staff is to build depth within the squad, particularly for the second team, known as the Morans. The importance of having a well-prepared and competitive second team was highlighted during the Africa Men’s Sevens in Mauritius, where the Morans finished sixth.
“It’s long overdue, and we need to create depth for our second team. We can’t send them to play a tournament after one week of training and expect good results,” Khisia emphasized. By building a strong second team, Khisia aims to ensure that Kenya has a steady pipeline of players who are ready to step up and compete at the highest level when called upon.
Looking Ahead: Shujaa’s Return to the World Rugby SVNS Series
The anticipation is building as Shujaa prepares to make its highly anticipated return to the World Rugby SVNS Series, starting with the Emirates Dubai Sevens from November 30 to December 1, 2024, at The Sevens Stadium. With a talented pool of players identified from the National Sevens Circuit, Kenya is poised to put up a strong showing on the global stage.
Conclusion
Kenya Sevens assistant coach Louis Khisia has named several young players who have been lighting up the 2024 National Sevens Circuit. As the team gears up for the 2025 World Rugby SVNS Series, these players, along with the lessons learned from previous competitions, will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Kenyan rugby. With a focus on physical and mental conditioning, depth in the squad, and a commitment to excellence, Kenya Sevens is well-prepared to take on the challenges that lie ahead.
