Barnabas Owuor bows out after illustrious Strathmore Leos career

After more than a decade of service, leadership, and unforgettable moments on the pitch, Barnabas Owuor has announced that this will be his final season with the Strathmore Leos.

The announcement marks the close of a golden chapter for one of the university side’s most influential players.

Owuor’s rugby journey began at Dagoretti High School, followed by a stint at Mwamba RFC, where his talent quickly shone through. He later earned a scholarship to Strathmore University, joining the Leos and going on to become a cornerstone of the team for ten incredible years.

In an interview with Citizen Digital, ‘Barno’ as he commonly referred to in his rugby circle, mentions that it is a difficult time for him to part ways with the varsity side which has been his home for a decade.

“I feel it’s the right time to step out. There’s no particular destination in mind at the moment, but I want to explore another environment and continue growing, both on and off the pitch,” he said.

Barnabas’ impact at Strathmore is hard to overstate. His list of achievements includes:

•             Winning the Championship Trophy (2019)

•             Securing promotion to the Kenya Cup (2020)

•             Reaching the Kenya Cup semis for two seasons in a row (2020/21 & 2021/22)

•             Clinching the Embu Sevens title three years running (2022–2024)

•             Lifting the Christie Sevens trophy (2022)

•             Winning the East Africa University Games (2022)

His exploits for the Makadara-based side in Nairobi earned him a call-up to the Shujaa national squad in 2022 by coach Damian McGrath, featuring at the Safari Sevens.

He also turned out for the Red Wailers, a renowned invitational side in last year’s edition of the Safari 7s held in Machakos.

Now on the verge of completing his Master’s degree in June, Owuor believes that the good days are still ahead for his former side under the tutelage of head coach Willis Ojal, despite a turbulent Kenya Cup season.

“I believe that despite the season that we had, better days are still ahead,” he noted.

Owuor, who predominately featured in the 8th man role for the varsity side, says that it was a privilege to lead the side to various trophies.

“It’s been an honour to be part of Leos and to captain the team, to win with this team. I tried to guide the boys the same way I was moulded when I first arrived, and I trust the current leadership to steer the team forward.” he stated.

As the Leos prepare for life after their long-serving captain, one thing that is certain is that there is a big pair of boots to be filled.