SCHOOLS: Kenya dominate East Africa games as All Saints, Vihiga, and St. Joseph Girls Kitale crowned champions

St Joseph’s Girls rugby players in action against Mbakulu Girls during National Secondary school games at Kisii School. [Sammy Omingo, Standard]

The 2024 Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSSA) games, held in Uganda, were a testament to Kenya's rugby supremacy, as Kenyan schools swept top honors across all categories.

All Saints Embu, Vihiga High, and St. Joseph’s Girls (7s) delivered standout performances, securing the titles in Rugby Fifteens, Boys’ Rugby Sevens, and Girls’ Rugby Sevens respectively.

All Saints Embu lead the charge in rugby fifteens

In the Rugby Fifteens category, All Saints Embu proved to be an unstoppable force. From the start, they showcased unmatched strategy and endurance, overpowering their opponents with a display of tactical brilliance.

Despite facing strong competition from Uganda’s St. Mary’s Kisubi, All Saints Embu's resilience and superior gameplay propelled them to the top, earning them the coveted Fifteens trophy.

Other Kenyan teams, including Kitondo School, Lenana, and Butula, also made significant contributions, reinforcing Kenya’s dominance in the competition.

While Uganda’s Makerere, Kings College Budo, and Namilyango put up spirited performances, it was clear that the Kenyan teams held a competitive edge.

Vihiga High School Claims Victory in Boys’ Rugby Sevens

Vihiga High School flew the Kenyan flag high in the Boys’ Rugby Sevens, clinching the title with a series of dominant performances.

Their path to glory was marked by decisive victories over tough rivals, including Bwake of Kenya and Uganda’s Jinja SS, both of whom provided formidable challenges.

Despite strong competition from Uganda’s London College and Rwanda’s Gitisi, Vihiga’s superior skill and teamwork were evident, cementing their reputation as the kings of East African Rugby Sevens.

St. Joseph’s Girls Triumph in Girls’ Rugby Sevens

In the Girls’ Rugby Sevens, St. Joseph’s emerged as champions, showcasing the depth of talent within Kenyan rugby.

The team faced stiff competition from fellow Kenyan side Kinale and Uganda’s Nkoma and Jinja SS. Kinale's second-place finish underscored Kenya’s strength in the girls' division, while St. Theresa and Nyagichenche also contributed to Kenya’s overall dominance.

Uganda’s teams, including Kijjabwemi and PMM, fought valiantly but ultimately fell short against the formidable Kenyan sides.

The 2024 FEASSSA games highlighted the strength and depth of Kenyan school rugby, with All Saints Embu, Vihiga High, and St. Joseph’s leading the charge.

Their victories not only demonstrate Kenya's rugby prowess on the regional stage but also inspire the next generation of athletes. As the Kenyan schools return home with their trophies, they have set a high standard for excellence in East African school sports.

Boys’ Rugby Sevens Final Rankings:

1. Vihiga High School (Kenya)
2. Bwake (Kenya)
3. Jinja SS (Uganda)
4. St. Mary’s Yala (Kenya)
5. Kisii School (Kenya)
6. London College (Uganda)
7. Gitisi (Rwanda)
8. Dr. Obote (Uganda)

Girls’ Rugby Sevens Final Rankings:

1. St. Joseph’s (Kenya)
2. Kinale (Kenya)
3. Nkoma (Uganda)
4. Kijjabwemi (Uganda)
5. Jinja SS (Uganda)
6. St. Theresa (Kenya)
7. Nyagichenche (Kenya)
8. PMM (Uganda)

Rugby Fifteens Final Rankings:

1. All Saints Embu (Kenya)
2. St. Mary’s Kisubi (Uganda)
3. Makerere (Uganda)
4. Kitondo School (Kenya)
5. Lenana School (Kenya)
6. Kings College Budo (Uganda)
7. Namilyango (Uganda)
8. Butula (Kenya)