Okaron ready for new challenge at Kisumu RFC

Kisumu RFC new head coach Oscar Okaron is confident that he will deliver despite being at the club for a short period.

Okaron joined the lakeside team in June from Administration Police (AP) Warriors.

He guided the Warriors to finish second in the Division II of the 2023 National 7s circuit and will be looking to achieve greater heights with Kisumu.

Last season, Kisumu who were under the guidance of former Kenya Simbas star Lawi Buyachi finished the circuit at 10th position with 33 points. They managed two quarterfinals in the Mombasa and Tisap 7s tournaments.

That was an improvement from the 2022 season when they ended their campaign at 18th position with only four points.

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In an exclusive with Mozzart Sport, Okaron noted that he has already adjusted to the lakeside weather and is ready to deliver. His first assignment with the team will be during the Christie 7s slated for this weekend.

“I've been able to climatize with the environment and the culture of the club. Am glad with how the team is getting stable, as I put my systems and structures in place and the team has received me well,” he revealed.

The tactician only had three weeks to prepare the team for the challenge and he is confident they will deliver.

“In the short span of three weeks of preparation, we have been able to improve our basic structure and have worked on our set-pieces, and I strongly believe that they are ready to compete,” he said.

He continued: “For the short time I've been in the club, we've really concentrated on the physical conditioning, which I know will play a big role in the circuit. I expect the players will live up to my expectations.”

Okaron is banking on young players like Denzel Juma, Job Nambili, and Beverly Okumu to light up the circuit.

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“I found the team with some dynamic young players who are eager to learn, which has helped me to transition from 15s to 7s. I've managed to identify brilliant young players who will make an impact in the circuit,” he offered.

When asked which teams will pose a challenge, Okaron said, “For long, KCB and Homeboyz rugby have been dominant, but I'll be excited to bring a young and vibrant side that will cause upsets.”

KISUMU RFC SQUAD

Nine players have been named in the squad for their National 7s Circuit debut at Kisumu RFC. Those who will be making their first 7s appearance for Kisumu RFC include Habil Malika who joined the Brave Hearts after ending his 10-year stay with Kabras RFC.

Dossy Wademi, Francis Obin, Felix Ochieng, Denzel Juma and Job Nambili are set to make their debut alongside Co-captains Henry Brian and Teddy Agutu who are also set for their debut in Nairobi.

Samson Hela, Walter Ambe, Calvin Jack and Beverly Okumu have been also named in the final squad for the opening tournament. Kisumu had a fair season in the 2023 campaign and will BE seeking to give a good account of themselves this season.

Kisumu have been placed in Pool B and will face Kabras RFC, Catholic Monk and Nakuru RFC.