Ojal: Strathmore Leos must build brotherhood to compete in Kenya Cup

Strathmore Leos Head Coach Willis Ojal has called for changes within the team as they prepare to challenge the top sides in this year’s Kenya Cup tournament.

In an interview with Citizen Digital, Ojal acknowledged the need for adjustments, particularly in team cohesion, since taking over in early 2024.

“We need to improve the camaraderie and respect within the team. There’s no room for egos—no one is bigger than the team,” Ojal said.

Ojal took over from Louis Kisia with two games remaining in last year’s Kenya Cup season but had his first full campaign in the national sevens circuit, where the Leos finished sixth overall.

The season was a mixed bag, with the team facing early exits in some rounds but reaching the semi-finals in others, ultimately capping off the series with a victory at the Prinsloo 7s.

The sevens campaign was a positive note following a disappointing Kenya Cup season, where the Leos finished ninth, two places lower than the previous year.

Despite this, Ojal is optimistic that the progress made during the sevens series will carry over into the 15s season.

“We experienced it all—playing in the main cup, the plate, and the semi-finals. That’s where our brotherhood came through because, in the end, we played for each other,” Ojal said.

Senior forward Ian Masheti echoed the coach’s optimism, expressing confidence in the team’s readiness for the new season.

“We’re all pumped up for the start of the season, and it looks promising for us,” Masheti said.