All Saints Embu out to defend East Africa school games title

All Saints Embu rugby head coach Benson Mwenda says they are determined to defend the East Africa rugby title when the games take place at Kakamega High School in August.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Mwenda said the team has quickly matured after key players cleared high school, and he believes the current squad is capable of once again conquering the region.

“We are working hard to make sure that we are ready for the competition, and I believe if we won it in Uganda, we have what it takes to win it at home, so we have to put in all the hard work required to make sure we are well prepared,” said Mwenda.

The Embu-based side made history last year by clinching their maiden KSSSA National 15s rugby title during the national championships held in the Eastern Region, defeating Butula Boys in a tightly contested final.

They went on to secure the East African 15s title for the first time in their history, edging out defending champions St. Mary’s Kisubi 9-3 in the final played in Uganda in August 2024.

Despite their impressive run last year, the coach still believes the Ugandan teams are their main threat.

“The squad has matured quickly; the boys now understand how to read the game, and I am sure the future of the team looks bright because of the good foundation we have built,” added Mwenda

The regional games will be held between 14th and 25th August, and the veteran tactics admit they have enough time to prepare for the competition.

“Ugandan teams have older and bigger players. Our players are young but tactically gifted. That is how we managed to win the trophy for the Kenyan team.

"We are equal in skills, age, and tactics,” he added.