Maseno School shines on the rugby field and in KCSE results

Maseno School's Winston Ngulu (center) in action against Otieno Oyoo.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Maseno School, renowned for its sporting excellence and academic rigor, is basking in the glory of an exceptional year both on and off the field.

The Kisumu County rugby 15s and sevens champions not only defended their titles last season but also impressed in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams, with the rugby team registering a remarkable average mean score of B (plain), underscoring the school’s commitment to striking a delicate balance between sports and academics.

With new leadership on the rugby front, spearheaded by Nick Abok, a Maseno alumnus and former coach of Nairobi Region rugby 15s champions Lenana School, the future looks brighter than ever.

Abok’s return to his alma mater has rekindled a sense of nostalgia and determination, with the coach eager to uphold the legacy of excellence that Maseno School represents.

“We extend our sincerest gratitude to the entire school community, led by the capable Principal Peter Owino, for their tireless efforts in cultivating such a remarkable team,” said Abok.

“The entire rugby team is overjoyed with this outstanding achievement, particularly with the exceptional performance of young Mr. Gilbert Magak, who has brought immense pride to our school by achieving an A (plain). We are inspired by the success of the 2024 team and are committed to striving for similar excellence this year, both on the field and in the classroom.”

Magak, alongside teammates like Fidel Ogongo (A-) and Emmanuel Wekesa (B+), led the charge for the rugby team both in matches and in academics, setting a benchmark for future cohorts.

Maseno School's Winston Ngulu (center) in action against Otieno Oyoo.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Their achievements are a testament to the school’s holistic approach to education, where sports and studies are given equal priority.

Principal Owino attributes this success to a structured program that ensures students excel in both arenas.

“At Maseno School, we believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals. Our strategy involves a disciplined routine where players dedicate themselves to rigorous training sessions without compromising their study time. This balance is crucial, and the results speak for themselves,” he said.

Maseno’s rugby teams dominated Kisumu County last year, clinching titles in both the 15s and sevens formats before advancing to the Nyanza Regional level. However, it is their triumph in academics that has earned widespread admiration.

The team’s mean score of B (plain), with an impressive average grade point of 9.25, is a reflection of their discipline, focus, and the unwavering support of their teachers and coaching staff.

Coach Abok credits the school’s culture of excellence and the collective effort of staff and students for this achievement.

“The 2024 team demonstrated that with dedication, anything is possible. Their success is not just a win for the rugby fraternity but also a celebration of the hard work put in by teachers who mentored these exceptional students, fostering their skills and dedication.”

As the 2025 Kenya Secondary School Games approach, Maseno School is gearing up to defend their titles and push the boundaries of what they can achieve.

The sub-county level games next month will be the first step in their journey, and with Abok at the helm, the team is brimming with confidence and motivation.

“We are building on the foundation laid by the previous team and aim to emulate their success. It’s not just about winning on the field but also about achieving greatness in the classroom,” Abok emphasized.

The school’s dual triumphs are a source of pride for the Maseno community, showcasing what can be accomplished when talent, discipline, and support come together.

As they prepare for the upcoming season, the rugby team, led by a visionary coach and guided by a dedicated administration, is poised to write yet another chapter of excellence in Maseno School’s illustrious history.

Indeed, Maseno School has proven that success is not confined to one domain but flourishes where determination meets opportunity.

MASENO SCHOOL RUGBY 2024 RESULTS

1.Gilbert Magak: A(plain)

2.Fidel Ogongo: A-(minus)

3.Emmanuel Wekesa: B+(plus)

4.Jacob Onyango: B+(plus)

5.Jayden Paul: B(plain)

6.Joharis Elly: B(plain)

7.Benoni Livingstone: B(plain)

8.Oloo Christian: B(plain)

9.Tonny Rebel: B-(minus)

10.Anyika Jesse:B-(minus)

11.Opio Thomas:B-(minus)

12.Brevian Lagatwa:B-(minus)

AVERAGE SCORE: 9.25

MEAN: B(plain)