Leon Nyang: Overcoming concussion, depression, and finding redemption in rugby

Kenya Harlequins rugby club fullback Leon Nyang is a well-known figure in the rugby community, admired for his electrifying speed and flair on the pitch.

His remarkable ability to break through defences and score has earned him a dedicated following. However, until recently, few knew that Nyang had been battling a personal struggle far tougher than any opponent: severe depression and suicidal thoughts.

Over the past few years, Nyang has faced multiple life-threatening concussions, physical injuries, and the emotional toll that accompanies them. His first concussion occurred in 2016 while he was still a student at St. Joseph's Rapogi Boys School in Migori County during a 15s game.

During his darkest moments, Nyang questioned his future in the sport he loved. Yet, instead of succumbing to despair, he turned to his faith and the support of those around him to find a path to healing.

In a heartfelt and candid interview with Citizen Digital, Nyang shared that Micah 7:7 became his guiding light: "I've lived by this verse because, through faith, I wouldn’t be where I am." For Nyang, this faith has been crucial to his survival.

"Battling life-threatening concussions has been one of the hardest challenges in my rugby journey and entire life, to be honest. The physical pain was tough, but the emotional toll was even greater," said the soft-spoken Nyang.

After his injuries, depression took a significant hold on him, leading him to question his place in the sport and life. He attempted to end his life six times without success.

“I fell into a deep depression, frequently questioning my future in the sport I loved. Not a day goes by that I don’t vividly remember every fall I’ve had and how I picked myself back up,” he shared.

Despite these overwhelming challenges, Nyang remained resilient, focusing on mental and physical healing. He credits therapy—not just the physiotherapy sessions for his physical injuries but also the emotional support he received from his psychologist.

"Some days are more challenging than others, but it’s the honest conversations with myself that help me through," Nyang confessed.

The 2024 Dala 7s tournament in Kisumu marked a pivotal moment in Nyang’s journey. After a two-year hiatus, his body suffered another shock, this time an epileptic attack triggered by foul play. The reactions from others included pity, doubt, and genuine concern.

Despite this, he sat out the next two legs of the competition, including the Kabeberi and Driftwood 7s in Mombasa, where Quins emerged victorious with a 15-12 win against KCB. He took this time to rest as advised by doctors.

Although it was painful to watch from the sidelines, Nyang remained involved behind the scenes, supporting his teammates and appreciating their passion for the game. Despite being frequently sidelined due to injuries, whenever Nyang returns, he continues to make an impact on the pitch.

Nyang’s story is not just one of personal struggle but also of turning pain into purpose. He has launched 'Project Mind Strong,' a campaign with the theme ‘Mind Fit, Game Fit,’ aimed at raising mental health awareness among rugby players.

His goal is to assist others who may be silently struggling and to bring conversations about mental health into the open, especially within the high-pressure world of professional sports.

Reflecting on his journey, Nyang shared,

"I’m happy to have grown emotionally to a point where external comments no longer affect my way of life. I’m focused on enjoying the journey and achieving everything I dreamed of as a 16-year-old before age catches up with me," he told Citizen Digital.

"A big thank you to my mom for helping me rediscover my faith and for always believing in me and allowing me to pursue what I love. To my siblings Kevo, Bella, and Austin, and my friends Benjamin, Ayimba, Brian, Oballa, Magaga, Kate, Woods, Bennion, Salma, Achola, and Anyango—your bonds have been powerful.

To my teammates Remke, Lucky, Wangila, Wiseman, Onzere, and Moha, you push me to be better, and when improvement doesn’t come quickly, you help me step by step. And to my coaches Murunga, Patris, Eden, and Simo, your belief in me is fuel enough,"  Nyang said.