Kenyan Lionesses international Bernadette Olesia passes on

The rugby fraternity in the country has been thrown into mourning after receiving the unfortunate news of Bernadette Olesia’s untimely demise on Tuesday morning.

According to a statement released by Northern Suburbs where the deceased was plying her trade, the lock succumbed to illness while at the Nairobi Women’s Hospital.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the demise of our captain Bernadette Olesia who succumbed to illness at Nairobi Women’s Hospital. We have lost a great player in the Kenya women’s rugby fraternity.

The team is in shock and mourns this great loss. Kindly keep her family in prayers at this difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” the announcement read.

Olesia was part of the latest Kenya Lioneeses squad that, back in May this year, helped the country gain a ticket to the WXV, the new women’s international 15s competition designed to increase the competitiveness, reach and impact of elite women’s rugby and was expected to be included in the team set to take part in the WXV 3 competition in October.

The country’s rugby governing body Kenya Rugby Union joined in mourning the player as well.

“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the death of Kenya international Bernadette Olesia. Bernadette worked at the Shamas Rugby Foundation and played her club rugby for Shamas Rugby Foundation and Northern Suburbs Ladies Team.

She passed away on Tuesday 15 August 2023 while undergoing treatment in hospital. We extend our condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and team mates. Further information around Bernadette’s funeral arrangements will be shared in subsequent communications,” KRU posted.

Kenya Lionesses fixture dates in inaugural WXV 3 tournament released

Mozzart Sport extends their condolences to Olesia's family, friends, colleagues and teammates during this difficult time.