National U-20 rugby team Chipu's joint training sessions with Simbas and top clubs have boosted their chances of posting good results at the World Rugby Junior Trophy from July 2-17 in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Head coach Simon Jawichre said they have had two intensive training camps.
"We’ve had two camps after the Super Series. One was solely for our team, but we also had the chance to face off with KCB while they were training for the Enterprise Cup.”
“During the second week, we joined Simbas in training, where the players gained the much-needed match experience from their seniors," Jawichre commented.
Coach Jawichre’s squad remains unchanged from the team that won the Rugby Africa U-20 Barthes Trophy in April.
With an insatiable appetite for success, Jawichre commented on their journey since the Barthes Trophy. "Since the Barthes Trophy, our players have featured in Super Series. Some succeeded while many others trained without getting game time."
The coach said the sessions have been crucial for the squad's preparations ahead of Scotland's showpiece.
"The sessions have brought the boys up to speed, especially as far as mental preparedness is concerned. Physically, there are a few areas to tackle but overall, they are coming into shape."
As the team prepares for its departure, Jawichre expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders and called for continued support.
"To all our stakeholders, including KRU, our families and supporters, please keep us in your prayers and support us in whichever way," continued Jawichre.
The squad includes Darrel Oluoch, Ian Nyandusi, Bramwell Mate, Brian Shile, Geylord Ngasi, Hafidh Mohammed, Eugene Etali, Cleyn Okumbi, Andycole Omolo, Eddy Otieno, Iddo Kuta, Wycliffe Ogutu, Nathan Tsindoli and Willy Tino.
Others are—Edmond Omondi, Patrick Wainaina, Benedict Muiruri, Faran Juma, Philip Okeyo, Alvin Khavoli, Brian Kiptoo, Dennis Ndayala, Kipchirchir Bett, Elvis Otete, Eugene Ojiambo, Jackson Siketi, Michael Wamalwa, and James Olela.
The non-travelling reserves are Jeremy Namiti, John Asega, Jeff Maina and Rogers Omanyi. Jawichre leads the technical bench alongside assistant coaches Qondani Katywa and Kenny Andola.
Others are Williams Motto (strength/ conditioning coach), Philip Wamae (team manager), Wacera Githua (assistant TM), Aysha Omar (team doctor) and Samuel Ochieng (physio).
Chipu are in Pool B and begin their campaign against Uruguay on July 2, with subsequent matches against the Netherlands (July 7) and the USA (July 12).
This will be Chipu’s fourth appearance at the World Rugby Junior Trophy, having previously graced the 2009, 2019 and 2023 editions.
The victorious team in the tournament will earn qualification to the 2025 World Rugby Junior Championship.
