Why rugby legend Humphrey Kayange is not throwing in the towel just yet

 Samurai Wakulima team manager Humphery Kayange during Masaku sevens on July 5, 2015 at Kenyatta stadium.

Kenya rugby fans were not disappointed at the just concluded Masaku Sevens tournament.

Lovers of the game thronged the Kenyatta Stadium to witness what remains the country’s biggest rugby fete.

Kenyans showed undivided love for the game, even as a nostalgic feel momentarily swept the stadium as an outfit christened ‘Samurai Wakulima’ took charge of the pitch. The new rugby sevens team comprised rugby greats from the former and current national rugby sevens squad.

To some, it was like reliving the days of former national sevens coach Mike Friday. Well, why not, when the last time they took to the pitch as a team was probably during the good old days of the Englishman.

Samurai Wakulima under Lavin Asego as coach and Humprey Khayange as team manager, ‘left no stones unturned.’ No team scored a try against Khayange’s boys, save for Homeboyz RFC who sneaked in one.

John Lawrence spoke with the legendary Humphrey Kayange on his Masaku 7s experience and future plans

So tall, what brings you here today?

We just came to play in the Masaku Sevens rugby this year, as old and current players from the Kenya Sevens national team. We thought this would be an opportunity for us to play in a local tournament. So it’s just to bond, run around the pitch and have fun as well.

Why Samurai Wakulima, is there anything special about the name?

We had several names to choose from, so we did a raffle of possible names and Wakulima won. I have no specific reason.

What is your role in the team?

I am here as the team manager, taking care of the team. I make sure that they train in time, eat the right food and that their travel and accommodation logistics are well taken care of.

How is the experience?

This is my first time in Masaku, and it has been great doing this. I have loved it all the way. We have had a good time and that is refreshing.

There are rumours that you could be planning to take up coaching job. What do you say?

I am hearing such rumours for the first time here. But let me say that I am currently looking to play more and more. The Olympics are coming up next year in Rio, and I would definitely want to be there. If I can get to play in the Olympics, that would be good.

Kenyans are a bit disappointed with the national team and many are doubtful we’ll make it to Rio. What is your message to the fans?

Patience guys, let us keep the faith. We have not gotten the results that we want and it’s very unfortunate. Players have done everything within their power, but things have not worked out. Fans have always rallied behind us and we hope for good results, especially in the new season.

Will Kenya be at the Olympics?

It is a qualification tournament, and we have to play well and win games. It is not a matter of just walking in and winning matches. We must get it right. Olympic games are the ultimate sporting experience for any athlete.

You are one of Kenya’s greatest rugby players. Do you think Kenya has treated you well?

I have had a brilliant time playing for Kenya and it has been good playing for my country. I have had the best experience. There are times when it was not good, but that did not last. In life, one has to move on, not just hang onto things. I don’t hold grudges.