Kenya Sevens legend Humphrey Kayange has called time on his international rugby career.
Kayange,an ever present fixture for more than a decade captained the team to the 2009 Rugby World Cup Sevens semifinals in Dubai,and also featured in the side that reached the same stage in 2013 in Russia. He also played at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
His announcement via his Instagram page, read,” my turn to say………..Goodbye!!! It has been about 2 years now that I have been trying to get back to the field for Kenya and run out with the brothers one last time. Guess it wasn’t to be. It is time to say goodbye to my international career in both 7s and 15s.
The last 12 years have been an unbelievable experience and I have loved every min of it. I have been blessed to play the game for more than a decade and to explore my talent and abilities while injury free for the better part of it.
I would like to thank a few people that have been part of the journey. My gratitude goes out to: • My family, Mum &Dad, Collo, Lee & Mike for all the support they have given me. I have shared amazing memories with my brothers as well
representing the republic • My Employers KEBS who have been supportive through it all and allowed me to go out and explore my talents • Over 12 years, I have been coached by several guys who’ve made me better so thank you very much. For the S&Cs as well, I will always remember some of those painful sessions but it was all worth it. • Mwamba RFC – the rock that my Rugby foundation lays on so always glad to have your back guys and know that you have mine • To the 40M+ – you guys have made it all worthwhile and special through the joy and the tears. The experiences shared will never be forgotten. The critics made us work harder so thanks to each and every one of you. • To the rugby community, Including World Rugby, KRU, Samurai International, Players I have the pleasure of playing with and against, I am immensely grateful for the all the memories, I will take them all with me to the next chapter as nothing compares to the satisfaction you get after a game.
Now it’s time to focus on the next chapter, I have a few hats on already that have been keeping me busy. In between my Research duties at KEBS, getting my Level 2 coaching accreditation and my Athletes Commission responsibilities at the Olympic Committee, I look forward to many more opportunities where I can give back to the sport that has given me so much. Asante sana!”
More to follow
We will remember you as a rugby legend