No more worries as Nakuru RFC clinches new sponsorship deal

Thomas Simiyu (centre) of Nakuru RFC outpaces Griffin Musila of KCB Rugby at Ruaraka Grounds. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

With the acquisition of a new sponsor, former champions Nakuru RFC now have a reason to focus on the future with more optimism.

The club clinched a Sh2.5 million sponsorship deal with Smart Applications Company, a healthcare provider ready to support the club's activities, according to the Group Chief Executive Officer Harrison Muiru.

"We took into account the club's rich history and its impact on local communities. For us, we want to change their ways of life on healthcare and for them to improve their performance," Muiru said at Nakuru Athletic Club on Tuesday.

While receiving the cheque from Muiru, Nakuru RFC patron Andrew Musangi said the journey of the club to stardom has just started and it's a matter of time before they return to their winning ways.

"With this kind gesture, we have started a long journey that commences with a first step as we look forward to taking our right position in the league and other subsequent Kenya Rugby Union assignments," said Musangi.

He added that the new branded shirts for the team are expected to arrive next week.

Nakuru RFC chairman Aggrey Omiyo said he expects a better performance from the playing unit.

"We have in the past faced tough moments, but with a new sponsor on board and a good cash flow, we need to see positive results coming in," he said.

Nakuru RFC, who are at the bottom of the table standings, take on Kisumu RFC in a Kenya Cup match at Nakuru Athletic Club on Saturday.

The club captain John Mbugua said they will give their best on the field.

"We'll no longer get worried in case of any injuries as we are assured of full medical cover and our allowances will be paid on time. All these have come at the right time," said Mbugua.

The team resumed training on Tuesday ahead of their league match on Saturday.