All Saints Embu out to prove East Africa rugby 15s triumph was no fluke

The little known team completed one of the most remarkable stories in the history of schools’ rugby by sweeping Eastern region, National and East Africa titles in 2024.

“Our plan is to defend the title to show everyone that it was not by luck but hard work.  We know everyone is training hard to stop us but we are determined to retain the title for the second year in a row.

“I’m impressed so far by what I have seen for the team. We’ve one resolve that we must put an extra effort if we’re to defend all the titles from the lower levels all the way to the East Africa stage,” said Mwenda.

The team sent shockwaves through the sport in 2023 when they finished second in both national and East Africa levels in their first time of asking.

And then they picked from where they left to reach new heights in 2024 sweeping all the titles from the lower levels all the way to East Africa.

Mwenda is unperturbed despite losing seven key players who cleared Form Four last year, adding that he was optimistic those who have filled the void will step up.

“We won’t underestimate any team at any level. We will take one game at a time and play with our heart out to make sure we get to the highest level. That means retaining the title which is our aim.

“Seven key players completed high school and some have joined Kenya Cup teams. But those who have taken their role have shown the hard work and passion needed to fill the gaps," added Mwenda.

The Eastern region champions came from 10-3 down to dethrone Butula Boys High School 12-10 lifting their maiden national title in Machakos then completed a clean sweep with the East Africa crown in Uganda last August.

The Embu based team launch their respective titles defence from the lower levels when the Term One Games start early next month.