The Rugby Patrons Society today achieved a significant milestone following the official certification of its Grassroots Rugby Academy by the Kenya Rugby Union. The journey, which began back in 2008, has now reached a defining landmark, with the academy becoming the first in Kenya to receive such certification. This achievement signals a progressive leap for age-grade rugby and reinforces ongoing efforts to entrench and nurture the game from the grassroots level.
During the certificate handover, KRU Director of Rugby –Paul Odera lauded the milestone, terming it a great honour for the Rugby Patrons Society and a positive stride for age-grade rugby and the sport at large. In a message delivered on his behalf, John Lloyd expressed his delight at the achievement, noting, “With the Rugby Patrons grassroots programme having started way back in 2008, I am very pleased that today RPS take another big step in keeping grassroots rugby very much alive and available to many more young enthusiasts with the formation of their new rugby academy.”
Also speaking at the launch, Richard Omwela commended the union for its instrumental support in helping the society attain this milestone. He underscored the enduring and symbiotic relationship between the union and the patrons, noting that it has flourished over time while continually contributing to the growth of rugby. Omwela reiterated that it has always been the patrons’ vision to expand the game in every possible way, emphasizing that true development begins at the grassroots. He added that this certification, as the first of its kind in Kenya, will go a long way in actualizing that vision and broadening access to the sport.
