Former Kenya Lionesses international to coach Quin Queens

Former Kenya Lionesses utility prop Everlyne Kalemera is set to join the newly formed Kenya Harlequins women's team Quin Queens as the coach.

Quin Queens was formed in October 2023 after Kenya Harlequins held trials for ladies aged 18-24.

Confirming the exciting news, Kenya Harlequin Chairman Victor Sudi noted that Kalemera was bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the team.

"Kalemera brings a wealth of rugby expertise as a former Kenya International player. Proficient in scrummaging, lineouts, tackling, and renowned for her skills as a ball carrier, Kalemera actively contributes as a volunteer age-grade coach within the rugby scene," Sudi disclosed.

About Kalemera

The 39-year-old spent five years as a versatile utility prop with the national women's Kenya Lionesses 15s team.

She has notable participation with the Kenya Lionesses in esteemed events such as the World Cup Repechage Qualifiers against Colombia in 2021, Elgon Cup (2019 and 2023), World Cup Qualifiers in 2019 in Stellenbosch, South Africa, Rugby Africa Women's Cup Qualifiers in Antananarivo, Madagascar in 2023, World Rugby WXV III tournament in Dubai, UAE in 2023 among others.

She contributed to Mwamba RFC's success across diverse positions and tournaments spanning eight years, achieving two back-to-back Kenya Cup triumphs twice during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons.

She recently played a vital role in the WXV3 Dubai tournament in October 2023, where she helped the Lionesses maintain their status by competing against Spain, Kazakhstan, and Colombia. The Lionesses confirmed their status in WXV3 after a 21-5 win over Colombia in their crunch tie at The Sevens in Dubai.

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She ended her professional rugby career in November 2023 on a high after the Lionesses spanked Uganda Lady Cranes 87-3 in the Elgon Cup match played at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium on November 11.

As if not enough, the former player holds a World Rugby 15s Level One Coaching Certificate, and a World Rugby Level One Officiating Certificate, accredited in rugby ready, first aid, and concussion management.

She is an office administrative assistant by profession.

Quin Queens are not among the selected teams to compete in the KRU Women’s Kenya Cup set to kick off on Saturday, 27 January, and conclude on Saturday, 13 April.

2024 Women’s Kenya Cup competing teams

Nairobi Conference: Mwamba, Impala, Northern Suburbs, Nakuru

Western Conference: Maseno University, Rongo, Shamberere, Western Spears