Nyanza champions Sigoti Complex celebrate after winning the 7s title/ANGWENYI GICHANADefending champions Kinale Girls are determined to retain their Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) national rugby sevens title as they continue their quest for a historic domestic and regional double.
Coach Allan Bush says his side has unfinished business this season, with the ultimate goal of winning both the Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) 15s and 7s titles in Morogoro, Tanzania, from August 12 to 23.
However, Bush insists the immediate focus is on defending the national sevens crown at the KSSSA Term Two National Championships, scheduled for August 2 to 6 at MPesa Foundation Academy in Thika, Kiambu County.
“We want to be the first team to win the 15s and 7s titles in the same year,” said Bush.
Kinale Girls have established themselves as the dominant force in girls’ rugby since the discipline was introduced to the KSSSA calendar.
The school finished runners-up in 2023 and 2024 before capturing their maiden national title in 2025. They also boast a FEASSA silver medal from 2024 and a bronze from 2025.
Earlier this year, Bush guided Kinale to the inaugural girls’ 15s title after a commanding 22-0 victory over Rift Valley giants St Joseph’s Girls Kitale (JOGA) at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Kisumu.
The coach admitted he will field a different squad in the sevens competition because the players who secured qualification for FEASSA through the 15s tournament are ineligible to feature in the national sevens event.
“I have a new team in 7s since the girls who won the 15s title are not allowed to play in 7s after qualifying for FEASSA,” he explained. Despite the changes, Bush remains confident his side can extend its impressive run.
“Teams should come prepared. We have finished on the podium for the last three consecutive years. We expect the same this year,” he said.
“Expect good rugby from Kinale Girls. The girls are ready to give their all during the championships.”
Kinale headline Pool A alongside Movuti, Getuamba and Karima Girls. Pool B features newly crowned Rift Valley champions Itigo Girls, Mwatate High School, Nyanza champions Sigoti Complex and St Joseph’s Girls Kitale.
St Theresa’s Girls, Karen C, Nyagechenche Mixed and Kimobo make up Pool C. At the same time, Coast region champions and debutants Moi Forces Academy Likoni have been drawn in Pool D together with Mbagathi Girls, Gatondo and Mbakalo.
