Rising Kenyan rugby star Andy Omolo secures move to Japan

Kenyan rugby prospect Andy Cole Omolo has taken a major step toward realising his professional ambitions after securing a move to Japan, where he will join Tenri University’s rugby program in Osaka.

The 21-year-old lock, who turns 22 on May 2, will combine academics and sport, pursuing a degree in International Relations while playing for the university’s competitive rugby side.

His transition marks a significant milestone in a journey that has seen him rise steadily through Kenya’s rugby ranks.

Omolo, currently attached to KCB Rugby Club and a member of the Kenya Simbas setup, described the move as a pivotal moment in his career.

“This is a big step for me and the first step towards becoming a professional rugby player. I am excited about the opportunity to grow both academically and on the pitch in Japan. I extend gratitude to Wazi Wazi and DBA Africa for their relentless pursuit of this chance,” said Omolo.

Born and raised in Chavakali, Omolo’s rugby journey began modestly. He attended Walodeya Primary School, where he first picked up the sport in Class 7.

“I grew up in Chavakali and went to Walodeya Primary School. I started playing rugby in Class 7, but I wasn’t very serious at the time; I was still focused on football,” he recalled.

His focus sharpened upon joining Chavakali High School in 2019, where he committed fully to rugby and quickly emerged as a leader.

“When I joined Chavakali High School, that’s when I really focused on rugby. I trained with the Kabras age-grade team, played for Western Chipu while still in high school, and had the privilege of captaining Chavakali for two years.”

 After completing high school, Omolo joined Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), featuring in three Kenya Cup matches before the team’s relegation. His performance earned him a call-up to the national Under-20 side in 2023, further elevating his profile.

He later secured a move to KCB Rugby Club, one of Kenya’s top-tier sides, where his development has continued under elite coaching structures.

KCB head coach Andrew Amonde said: “Andy has shown tremendous discipline and work ethic since joining KCB. His progression has been impressive, and this opportunity in Japan is well deserved. We believe this move will expose him to a higher level of competition and help him reach his full potential.”

Omolo’s move to Tenri University underscores the growing pathway for Kenyan rugby talent to access international opportunities through education and sport.

It also highlights the increasing global recognition of Kenya’s rugby development structures.