Shamas Rugby Foundation off to United Kingdom

Brian Otieno of U14 Shamas Rugby Foundation dodge with the ball when Shamas paid a courtesy call at British High Commissioner at his residence ahead of their UK Tour on Wednesday, November 12th, 2014. Photo: Jonah Onyango.

After a successful tour of South Africa last year, Shamas Rugby Foundation is set for another tour this time to the United Kingdom from November 19.

The tour, just like last year's, will last ten days and will see the team play a number of build-up matches with local sides.

A total of 20 boys both from disadvantaged back-grounds will make the trip. The team was hosted at the residence of the British High Commissioner on Wednesday evening.

Kenya Ruby Union (KRU) chairman Mwangi Muthee said they are proud of the work being done by the foundation to promote rugby.

Muthee called on the boys to be disciplined if they hope to be successful in the sport.

"Discipline is key if any of you wants to become better in this sport. It is great privilege for all of you to have an opportunity to visit the United Kingdom and you must not take it for granted.

"You should strive to keep yourselves clean by avoiding banned substances. Rugby is a clean sport and you must strive to keep it so," said Muthee.

He further pointed out that the Union has laid down different plans to promote the sport at the lower level. British High Commissioner Christian Turner challenged the boys to emulate their senior colleagues.

"Kenya is well known for rugby and during the London Sevens, they get tremendous support only second to hosts England. You must strive to reach such levels," he said.

Sports Secretary Hassan Wario said a sports academy is nearing completion at Kasarani.

"The academy will give talented youngsters an opportunity to build their talent as well as go to school," he said.

Once completed, the academy will admit children from Form One. Shamas Foundation founder Azim Dean said the visit to United Kingdom is expected to be an eye opener for the boys. Apart from organising such trips, the foundation also pays school fees for the children.