Story of Brookhouse alumnus Lucky Dewald now making waves at Kenya Harlequin
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Reading Time: 3min | Mon. 02.09.24. | 15:00
However, unlike other players whose rise to prominence has been closely followed by rugby fans, Dewald has been largely devoid of the spotlight though he loves maintaining a low profile and being out of the media
The 2024 National Sevens Circuit resumes on Saturday 7 September with the Driftwood 7s following a one-week hiatus with Kenya Harlequin scrumhalf Lucky Dewald itching to extend his blistering form.
One of the teams that will be on the fans’ radar is Kenya Harlequin who currently sit on top of the standings with 75 points.
This solid performance builds on the 58 points they had already earned from the first three legs of the tournament. They have consistently reached the semifinals this season.
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Among the team’s key players is one Lucky Dewald.
His sudden death try during Kakamega Ingo 7s saw Quins win the title, and he was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP).
However, unlike other players whose rise to prominence has been closely followed by rugby fans, Dewald has been largely devoid of the spotlight though he loves maintaining a low profile and being out of the media.
He was part of the Kenya Under 20 7s and 15s squad, featuring for the Chipu as they claimed bronze in the 2022 Rugby Africa Barthes Cup. In the same year, he joined The Stellenbosch Academy of Sport (SAS) in South Africa.
The program is led by Jacques Hanekom, a former provincial rugby coach and a specialist in rugby player recruitment and development pathways.
He is responsible for SAS Rugby programs and initiatives. Other coaches part of the program include former Blitzboks captain Philip Snyman and Frankie Horne.
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The experience gained during the program has come in handy in his performance. He was part of the squad that saw Quins claim fourth place in the 2023/24 Kenya Cup season. The versatile halfback has also been a key player for the side during the circuit.
But who is this guy Dewald?
To begin with, the 22-year-old was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo to a Rwandan mum.
Three years ago, Dewald's path crossed with Kenya Harlequin, thanks to a friend's recommendation. What started as a simple introduction has turned into a remarkable rugby career.
Before joining the club, Dewald studied at Brookhouse School, laying the foundation for his academic pursuits. He later went on to study at the International House Manchester (IHM) in the United Kingdom.
However, his studies were interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, which brought him back to Kenya just as he was finishing his final term. Despite the disruption, Dewald remains committed to advancing his education in the future.
Interestingly, rugby was not always on Dewald's radar. At his previous levels of study, he was a football player, and it was not until he joined Kenya Harlequin that he first touched a rugby ball.
His natural talent for the game, combined with his sheer love and enjoyment of playing, has quickly turned him into a star for the club.
He has been in incredible form, consistently delivering standout performances.
Yet, unlike many rising stars, Dewald prefers to remain out of the spotlight. He is a player who lets his actions on the field speak for him.
Heading to Driftwood, Quins have been placed in Pool C alongside Kabras, Nakuru RFC, and Mwamba. They will be keen to maintain their top position.
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