Nairobi School banking on mental strength and squad depth for KSSSA rugby sevens challenge

Nairobi School in action against Lenana during a recent match/HANDOUT  

 Nairobi School rugby sevens coach Alan Wanjohi believes mental resilience and squad depth will be the decisive factors as his side targets a strong run at the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Term Two Games next week in Thika. 

 Nairobi School finished second to defending regional champions Upper Hill in the Nairobi County games a fortnight ago, but Wanjohi is confident his charges have what it takes to challenge the country’s traditional rugby powerhouses.

“Our focus has been on the mental aspect of the game. We are working with the team to instil a never-say-die spirit irrespective of who we are going to meet, and I believe the boys will turn up and be competitive against quality opposition,” said Wanjohi.

The tactician believes the demanding nature of the Sevens tournament means every player in the squad must be ready to contribute.

“Depth will be key in the tournament. The bench will have to step up when coming into the game, so we are not just looking at the starting seven but also the players who can come off the bench and make an impact to help us win matches,” he added.

Wanjohi is hoping to improve on last year’s performance when Nairobi School bowed out in the quarter-finals after a thrilling 21-14 defeat to Koyonzo in Kakamega.

“A good number of our boys featured at last year’s tournament and gained valuable experience. We have also blooded some new talent, which I hope can get us over the line,” he said.

Nairobi School head to Thika full of confidence after lifting the inaugural Under-19 Schools Cup title, defeating Ofafa Jericho 29-18 in the final at Impala Club.

“We had a successful tournament, winning the inaugural championship. Although it was a 15s competition, the boys are looking forward to transferring that form into the sevens game,” Wanjohi noted.

The coach attributed the school’s recent resurgence to improved development structures, unwavering support from the administration and the commitment of its alumni.

“Over the last two to three years, our performances and results have improved. The school has established age-grade structures across all classes, while the administration has been very supportive. Our alumni have also played a crucial role in ensuring we become a force to reckon with,” he said.

Nicknamed the “Patch Machine,” Nairobi School have been drawn in Pool A alongside Bokoli Boys, Anjego Boys and former national 15s champions All Saints Embu.

With an experienced core, emerging young talent and growing confidence, Wanjohi believes his side has the ingredients to challenge for national honours and surpass last year’s quarter-final finish.