© Nashipae Tabby
© Nashipae Tabby

Origin of MET 7s explained and how sponsorship will shape its fifth edition

Reading Time: 3min | Fri. 03.07.26. | 21:13

Now in its fifth edition, Omido admitted the tournament's rapid rise has exceeded the organizers' expectations

On Saturday, 4 July, the KCB Sports Club will throw its doors open to an extraordinary tournament; the fifth edition of the Met 7s.

Organizers are hoping this will be the biggest edition yet and will set the tone for the upcoming 2026 National 7s Circuit.

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The competition has attracted 16 teams, with the pools already confirmed and tickets sold out ahead of kick-off.

As anticipation builds, organizers have also explained the story behind the tournament's unique name, which has sparked curiosity among fans since its inception.

Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Stingerz Rugby chairman Hansen Omido revealed that the name dates back to the tournament's launch in 2022.

"The name 'MET' dates back to 2022. At the time, Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) was still functional, although that wasn't really the inspiration. The word 'metropolitan' simply represents Nairobi and its surrounding areas," Omido explained.

"Since the tournament is based in Nairobi, we wanted a name that reflected a platform for showcasing rugby talent from the city and its environs. That's how we settled on 'MET', a shortened form of metropolitan,” he continued.

The reference to NMS dates back to when the tournament was launched.

The Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) was a specialized national government entity established in 2020 after taking over four key functions from the Nairobi City County Government under a Deed of Transfer.

These included county health services, transport services, public works and utilities, as well as county physical planning and development.

NMS later handed the functions back to the Nairobi City County Government in late 2022, around the same period the MET 7s was finding its footing.

Now in its fifth edition, Omido admitted the tournament's rapid rise has exceeded the organizers' expectations.

"When we started in 2022, it was just an idea, and honestly, we never imagined it would grow this quickly. Reaching our fifth edition reflects the hard work that has gone into building the event over the years. Having KCB come on board is proof that those efforts are being recognized,” he said.

This year's edition has received a major boost after KCB came on board as the title sponsor, a partnership Omido believes will elevate the tournament to even greater heights.

"KCB's involvement has opened more doors for us. It has helped attract goodwill not only within rugby but also from other stakeholders and fans, and that's a major step forward for the tournament," he noted.

Omido added that the sponsorship is the latest chapter in a relationship that stretches back several years.

"Our relationship with KCB didn't begin today. They have supported Stingerz for years. They were instrumental during our affiliation process in 2022, and they've been a dependable partner since 2018. Having them join us as title sponsors is a continuation of a relationship that has been built over time,” he concluded.

Met 7s pools

Pool A: KCB Rugby, Homeboyz RFC, Kabete Stallions, JKUAT Cougars

Pool B: Daystar Falcons, KU Blak Blad, Makueni Ravens, USIU Eagles

Pool C: Catholic Monks, Zetech University Oaks, NYS Spades, Mean Machine

Pool D: Kenya Harlequins, Mwamba RFC, Stingerz, Northern Suburbs


tags

Met 7sJKUAT CougarsKCB RFC

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