Kenya 7s forward reveals tough recovery journey after seven-month injury

Kenya 7s forward John Okoth has shared the emotional and physical toll of his seven-month recovery journey following a tibia fracture sustained during the 2024 Kabeberi 7s.

The Menengai Oilers player suffered the injury on Saturday, 17 August, sidelining him for months, and forcing him to miss key tournaments, including the HSBC World Rugby 7s Series, despite having impressed at the Paris Olympics earlier that year.

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After a lengthy rehabilitation period, Okoth made his long-awaited return to competitive rugby in March 2025, featuring for Menengai Oilers during their Enterprise Cup semifinal clash against Nondies RFC, where the Oilers cruised to a 41–10 victory.

He then helped Menengai Oilers finish third in the 2025 National 7s Circuit after accumulating 94 points from the six legs.

Okoth’s comeback continued at the Safari 7s, where he represented Kenya Morans and played a crucial role in helping the side secure third place.

Together with Brian Mutua and Elvis Olukusi, they were among the experienced players in a team that had nine rookies.

“It has been a year since I last played, so coming back feels amazing. I am happy and honored to be back on the pitch. Not many players return to the same level after an injury, so I’m grateful and excited to be here again,” he told Mozzart Sport.

He admitted that being away from the game tested his patience and mental strength, especially when watching his teammates compete on television.

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“Watching the team on TV made me realize just how hard it is to be a fan. Especially when we lose, you feel like you could have done something to change the outcome. You really want to be out there with the boys. It is tough watching from the sidelines,” he said.

The forward also reflected on what he missed most during his time away.

“I missed the brotherhood, the travels, and the thrill of playing at a higher level,” he added.

Returning to the national setup, Okoth is fully aware that reclaiming his spot in the Shujaa starting lineup will not come easy, but he is raring to go.

“Now, I have to fight for my spot in Shujaa again. The starting forwards are good, and their skill level is high, so I need to catch up. It’s a long road ahead, but I’m ready for the challenge,” he averred.

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The Oilers, who are the Impala Floodlights defending champions, will start their title defense with a tough match against five-time champions KCB Rugby on Saturday, 18 October at the Impala Club. It is expected to be a tough match, and Okoth is ready for the challenge.

“As for 15s, I love it. I am planning to play at Floodies. I enjoy tough matches, that is why I love to face KCB because they are one of the toughest teams around,” he said.

We chatted shortly with his coach, Louis Kisia, who commended his strong comeback and attitude.

“Okoth coming back from an injury that took him out of the season for a whole year, you could see he was exceptional in all games,” Kisia said.

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