As the East Africa Secondary School Games approach next week in Mbale, Uganda, rugby fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling competition featuring four Kenyan schools. St. Mary’s School Yala, Vihiga High School, Kisii School, and Friends School Bwake are all set to compete for the rugby Sevens title, vacated by the defending champions, Koyonzo Secondary School, who were unexpectedly eliminated in the national quarterfinals held in Kisii.
St. Mary’s School Yala: Aiming for Top Honors
St. Mary’s School Yala, having made a notable debut in last year’s East Africa tournament in Huye, Rwanda, where they finished fifth, is now determined to secure a podium finish. The team has shown consistent performance, winning a bronze medal at the nationals for the past two years. Under the guidance of Coach George Kerima, Yala is focused on improving their game and targeting the top spot in Mbale.
Coach Kerima remains optimistic about their chances, especially after their narrow loss to Friends School Bwake in the national semifinals. “The close match against Bwake has really boosted our confidence. We’ve been working hard on our discipline and tactical execution. We know we can perform better and are prepared to take each game as it comes,” Kerima stated.
Friends School Bwake: National Champions Ready for Regional Domination
Friends School Bwake enters the East Africa tournament as the national champions, bringing high expectations and a strong track record. Having proven their dominance at the national level, Bwake is keen to carry that success over to the regional stage. Their performance in Mbale will be closely watched as they aim to assert their authority in East African rugby.
Vihiga High School: Speed and Physicality in Focus
Vihiga High School is another key contender in the tournament, known for their blend of speed and physicality. The team’s aggressive style of play and quick execution make them a formidable opponent. Vihiga’s preparation and performance will be crucial as they look to make a significant impact in the competition.
Tough Competition Ahead
The round-robin format of the tournament means that Kenyan teams will face strong competition from their Ugandan counterparts. Teams such as Kira College Butiki, Jinja Secondary School, Dr. Obote College, and St. Lawrence London College are expected to pose significant challenges. Additionally, Rwanda’s Gitsi Ruhambo will also be a tough competitor, adding to the intensity of the matches.
Kenyan Girls’ Teams Set for Action
In the girls’ rugby Sevens category, Kenya will be represented by national champions St. Joseph Girls Kitale, debutants Nyagichenche from Kisii, St. Theresa, and Kinale Girls. St. Joseph Girls Kitale, with their national championship experience, will be a team to watch as they take on Ugandan sides such as Jinja Secondary School and Nkoma Secondary School. Their experience and skill will be vital in their quest for regional glory.
Rugby 15s: All Saints Embu vs. Saint Mary’s College Kisubi
The rugby 15s competition will see national champions All Saints Embu challenging the defending champions, Saint Mary’s College Kisubi of Uganda. All Saints Embu, placed in Group A, will also face off against Lenana School from Kenya and Namilyango College from Uganda. The group promises competitive matches with high stakes.
Group B will be equally competitive, featuring last year’s silver medallists, Butula Boys from Kenya, alongside Kitondo School, Makerere College, and Kings College Budo from Uganda. The clash of these strong teams will determine the regional rugby supremacy in this exciting tournament.
As the East Africa Secondary School Games commence, all eyes will be on the Kenyan teams as they aim to capture the rugby Sevens title. With St. Mary’s School Yala, Vihiga High School, Kisii School, and Friends School Bwake leading the charge, and strong competition from Ugandan and Rwandan teams, the tournament promises to be an exciting and closely contested event. In both rugby Sevens and 15s, the level of play is expected to be top-notch, making for a thrilling championship.
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