Vincent Onyala ready to guide new look Shujaa at Paris Olympic Games

Shujaa players Vincent Onyala (left), George Ooro and Samuel Asati training at Kasarani before leaving for Miramas, France ahead of the Paris Olympic Games. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

When Kenya Sevens were relegated from the World Rugby Sevens Series in May last year, many ruled out Shujaa after a string of poor performances and dwindling form of star players including Alvin ‘Buffa’ Otieno, Billy Odhiambo and Nelson Oyoo among others.

Shujaa had been reduced to whipping boys who lost to every team you could think of but a change of guard and bestowing trust in the young blood has since turned around the sinking ship of the sleeping giants.

With Kevin ‘Bling’ Wambua tactically guiding the team, Shujaa has risen from the dead as they not only won the African Sevens title, but also qualified for the Olympic games set to begin at the end of this month and earned promotion back to the World Rugby Sevens Series.

Inspired by the leadership of captain Vincent Onyala, Shujaa who are majorly made up of new faces are upbeat ahead of Olympics.

Speaking after Wambua named 10 new faces in the Kenya Sevens team set for Paris, Onyala said there is renewed belief and hope in the team despite being underdogs in their pool.

Kenya will play heavyweights Argentina, Australia and Samoa in the preliminary stages and Onyala believes they have the quality to play top level rugby.

“Kenyans should prepare to watch one of the most thrilling rugby in Paris this year. This young team is made up of energy, passion, determination, and hunger for success, values that has helped the team grow since last year,” said Onyala.

The new faces in the Shujaa team include speedster Patrick Odongo, John Okoth, George Ooro, Samuel Asati, Nygel Amaitsa, Kevin Wekesa, Chrisant Ojwang, Brian Tanga, Anthony Omondi and Lamech Ambetsa.

Only Onyala and Herman Humwa return to the Olympics after participating in the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

“It won’t be an easy show for Shujaa. We already know that but let the world not write us off. This team has grown their style of play and the talent we have is amazing. We know we will do well at the Olympics,” added Onyala.

Wambua says he believes his players will give their best in Paris and called for support from their fans around the world and back home when they take to the field in Paris.

“The team has been in camp, and we are pleased with how well we have gelled together. Each player has shown dedication and commitment, both on and off the field.

“We are ready to give our very best at the Olympics. Our preparation has been intense, focusing on refining our skills and strategies. We are determined to represent Kenya with pride and aim to make a significant impact in Paris,” said Wambua