Paul Odera chuffed with talent on parade at Western Region Under-18 Rugby Trials

Kenya Rugby Union Under-18 head coach Paul Odera expressed his admiration for the burgeoning rugby talent in Western Kenya over the weekend.

Odera spoke to Citizen Digital after overseeing the Under-18 trials held at  Kakamega School last Saturday, and is impressed by the skills and dedication of the young players.

"There is so much talent in this region (Western). When I came to watch the region last time, it was even better now to see all these players playing together. Butula, Kakamega School, Chavakali, Koyonzo, Vihiga, etc., and I think it's a testament to how hard Western Kenya has worked on getting their players to a very good standard."

The trials at Kakamega School brought together a total of 66 players from several prominent schools like Vihiga, Chavakali, KSSSA 7s champions Koyonzo, hosts Kakamega School, and Butula Boys High School.

Odera said the plan was to select 30 players from Western Kenya, along with selections from other regions, to participate in a regional tournament. The best players from this tournament will form the national Under-18 team which Citizen Digital understands is set to take part in a tournament in South Africa later this year.

The level 3 holder tactician also hailed the crucial role educators play in nurturing young talents in the region as a way of promoting rugby.

"Teachers in Western are doing their best. If you are not a rugby expert, you can only do what you can do. Here, teachers are doing a lot for the game, and we need to support the teachers by developing their coaching skills. I commend them," he voiced.

The national under-18 rugby team will be used as a feeder team to Under 20 'Chipu' and Kenya Simbas.

The Western Kenya Rugby Development Officer (RDO) Shirley Anindo who was also present during the trials lauded the young talents.

"We've witnessed massive talents today, and it marks a step in the right direction for the future of rugby in this country, I want to thank teachers and schools who have allowed their students to take part in this important exercise” she noted.

A total of 32 out of 71 players have already made the final cut in the Nairobi region trials.