Kenya Sevens head coach Damian McGrath said they will use the inaugural New York Sevens tournament as preparation for the Olympic qualifiers in Zimbabwe in September.
Shujaa, who were relegated from the World Sevens Series last month, = face a stern test from World Sevens Series champions New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia with Pool B featuring Fiji, France, Australia, and hosts USA.
Shujaa begin the one-day event with a match against New Zealand before facing Australia and South Africa in their subsequent fixtures. The winners of each pool will compete in the final for the overall title.
The second-placed teams will compete in the bronze medal match while third-placed teams will fight for the plate title with the bowl final featuring fourth-placed teams in each pool.
The tactician said it will be vital to bounce back and prepare adequately for the Olympic qualifiers.
“The disappointment of the World Seven Series is now behind us and we have to focus on the Olympic qualifiers. We must also improve on facets of play to be in the best possible shape and the tournament in New York gives us a good opportunity,” added McGrath.
Commenting on the New York tourney, the coach said they are more than ready to face the best.
“For you to win, you have to play the best sides and I believe it will bring the best out of us. We are going there to compete and win,” he observed.
McGrath said the ultimate goal is to win the Challenger Series next year and get back to the World Seven Series.
“ The upcoming tournaments are a preparation for the Challenger Series and other tournaments we are going to be playing. With the support of everyone, I believe we can be back at the top table,” he noted.
The winner of the New York tournament will pocket Sh136 million.
Elsewhere 24 schools are expected to converge at the Lenana School for the John Andrews Sevens Memorial tournament this weekend.
Among the schools expected to grace the event are hosts Lenana, Ofafa Jericho, Upper Hill, St Mary's and Strathmore. ]
