Allan Bush excited by Gilgil Pioneer’s lofty ambitions

Gilgil Pioneer Academy Ladies Rugby Club defied the energy-snapping temperatures at the RFUEA Grounds to emerge winners of the Under 11 and Under 13 age grade tournaments that were played over the weekend.

The Gilgil-based club U13 category checked into the RFUEA Grounds with a 45-0 win over Janhi RFC before seeing off Eagles RFC 55-0. They then defeated Ololo RFC 25-0 before holding off Mathare Rugby Foundation 5-0 in the closely contested match. They were crowned champions by virtue of winning over all their opponents.

Pioneer were picking up from where they left after winning Prinsloo Under 13 girls and coming second in the Under 11 tag.

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According to Allan Bush, seeing the girls’ efforts finally paying off was heartwarming. The team was formed in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic in an attempt to shield children from the dual threats of the virus.

“The most amazing feeling as a coach is the fruit of hard work, consistency, and the kids/players grasping the game,” he offered.

Bush further stated that the girls’ consistent, and dedicated effort on the training field was the catalyst for their success, as well as committed coaches. The Under 16 girls train at the Gilgil Town Secondary School while Under 12 and 14 hone their skills at NYS Primary.

“Training at our camp is a daily thing, it's a culture we bring in rugby, and that is why we treat each game as an outside training, making it easy to win games. We also have committed players, and committed trained coaches. Above all, consistency is key,” Bush disclosed.

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With the circuit now behind them, the team is sharpening claws ahead of the September Festival rugby tournament set to be held at the NYS Grounds on September 30. The tournament will feature two categories; Under 18 girls and Under 14 girls (Form 1 and 2).

“We have a busy end quarter of the year, with lots of festive coming up, tournaments and our boys and girls will be joining form one that will ensure a smooth transition for the players and getting the Academy goal to the right direction,” he offered.

The girls qualified for the finals of the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) rugby 7s games that were played at the Bull Ring in Kakamega last month but narrowly lost 10-5 to Mwika Girls after a spirited performance.