How video analysis propelled Kenya Harlequin to National Sevens Circuit title

Kenya Harlequin assistant coach Patrice Agunda has offered valuable insights into how video analysis has been instrumental in lifting the National Sevens Circuit title.

Quins won the 2024 title with 110 points with the victory seeing them join their Nairobi neighbours—Impala, Mwamba RFC, and KCB Rugby—as one of the most successful teams in the circuit.

It also marked their fourth overall title, adding to titles earned in 2005, 2006, and 2012.

They started the circuit with a second-place finish during their home tournament; Christie 7s after a 19-12 loss to Kabras. They would bounce back to winning ways after seeing off KCB Rugby 17-12 during sudden death in the Kakamega Ingo 7s.

They went on to finish third during Dala 7s before clinching a similar position during Kabeberi 7s. They would then defeat KCB Rugby 15-12 to win the Driftwood 7s. A fifth-place finish at the Prinsloo 7s capped off their impressive season.

Beyond their talented roster, technical bench, and impressive playing style, what set them apart this season was their commitment to constant video analysis.

Clips circulating online captured the team meticulously reviewing footage of previous matches, dissecting their own performance as well as their opponent’s tactics.

Coaches and players were seen discussing positioning, decision-making, and key moments of the game.

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Agunda admitted that video analysis gave them an edge over other teams.

The process for the team is straightforward and effective. One of the technical bench members records footage using a tablet for later review.

Coach Simon Odongo then edits the videos, cutting them down to highlight important plays and strategies. The edited clips are then presented to the team for analysis on a laptop.

“Video analysis is standard in any sports environment. This time we deployed a wide set of skills from different coaches so each had their own specialty. It has been there; we just found ways to optimize it, this time with technological advancements,” he offered.

According to Agunda, the analysis allowed players and coaches to review key moments, identify strengths, and pinpoint areas for improvement.

“We analyze the matches, our strengths, and weaknesses, and prepare for them mentally. By the time players get to the field, everyone knows their roles. Rugby, especially sevens builds you as a person. We always seek to optimize the player’s abilities,” he continued.

The team's victories over KCB Rugby in the finals of both the Kakamega Ingo 7s and Driftwood 7s serve as clear proof that their video analysis process is yielding positive results.

“For us to win the circuit as a community team, analysis has played a great role. We are also incorporating technological advancements. For instance, we have always had an edge over KCB Rugby because we analyzed how they play. They start strong and they struggle in the end,” he disclosed.

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Agunda went on to congratulate the players for their impressive performance during the season, noting that their hard work and commitment eventually paid off.

“Our players also believed in the system and in themselves. It took a team effort from players, fans, and our executive committee who availed the funds for us,” he told Mozzart Sport.

On what the victory means to the team, Agunda said, “The win has instilled a new sense of belief to the players, even as coaches, it is a big boost because we have seen that our systems are working.”

With the triumph now behind them, the team's focus has shifted towards prioritizing recovery, nutrition, and individualized care for each athlete to ensure optimal performances in future tournaments.

“Right now, we have no pressure whatsoever. We are teaching players to be at their best. We want to make all-rounded players who excel both on the pitch and in other areas,” he concluded.

In June this year, Agunda participated in a one-month coaching exchange program in Japan.

During that time, he collaborated with renowned coaches Eddie Jones and Toshiaki Hirose, as part of the Japanese national rugby team. He also participated in the training camps of both the Japanese national team and the under-20 team.