Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) chairman Alexander ‘Sasha’ Mutai wants to revive the Kenya Schools Combined Team programme starting next year.
The programme was last in existence in 1996. “The Kenya Schools Combined team will help to elevate the standards of Kenyan rugby as well as provide talented young players from schools all over the country with a platform to showcase their skills at prestigious events such as the Grant Khomo Week and eventually the prestigious Craven Week,” he said.
Speaking at the Blackrock Festival at St. Mary’s School, Mutai further emphasised the need to introduce rugby at a high level in educational institutions with a particular focus on primary schools.
“We aim to work with the Ministry of Education to establish rugby as a core sport in the primary school curriculum in order to ensure rugby receives the necessary support and recognition it deserves within the education system,” he said.
He stressed the significance of promoting inclusivity in rugby. He articulated his vision for public and private schools to participate in the same league. This integration will not only foster healthy competition but also contribute to the overall development of the game across the country.
To ensure sustained participation and engagement in schools, Mutai wants rugby played in third term exclusively for students in Form One, Two and Three in contrast to the current format of playing 15’s in Term One and 7s in Term Two.
“The rationale behind this decision lies in the longevity of the students within the school system and the opportunity it presents for longer series. By extending the duration of rugby programs within schools, young players would have more time to hone their skills and develop a deeper understanding of the game.”
On a lighter note, Mutai expressed his satisfaction with the increasing number of schools embracing rugby. He commended their efforts in recognizing the sport’s potential to positively impact the lives of young athletes.
Furthermore, Mutai urged rugby clubs to establish age-grade systems especially U-20 and U-17 divisions, in addition to the existing Eric Shirley Shield (ESS) category.
While acknowledging the financial obligations associated with implementing such systems, he believes they will be crucial for the holistic growth of the sport. “Creating opportunities for players of different age groups and rugby clubs can foster a stronger pool of players for national and international competitions.”
