SportPesa has affirmed its partnership with Kenya’s Rugby Legends in a deal that will see the celebrated roster of distinguished former top flight players receive KES 2 million in sponsorship support towards their doubleheader against their counterparts from Uganda.
The collaboration starting May 2024 gives a nod not only to the successful history of Kenyan rugby, but also consolidates a future where experience converges with talent to inspire and uplift the next generation of rugby stars.
Coupled with its social impact arm, the Tujiamini Initiative, the partnership aims to drive the joint vision of developing and supporting rugby and rugby-related talent from mentorship, all the way to professional top-flight competition.
Speaking during the unveiling of the partnership, SportPesa’s Communication and Advertising Manager Willis Ojwang expressed the firm’s excitement to embark on this journey with the Legends by Nondies because of their unparalleled legacy.
“Through this partnership, we aim to ignite a flame that will burn in the hearts of young talented players, encouraging them to believe in themselves and their potential for success just like the Legends,” said Ojwang.
Rekindling the spirit of last year’s memorable return leg after the Legends’ tour in Uganda, the sponsorship marks a continued commitment by SportPesa to the rich legacy of rugby in Kenya by tapping into the invaluable mentorship potential of the Legends to nurture emerging talent.
At the event that also doubled up as the new sponsorship kit reveal, Legend’s Head Coach Oscar Osir provided a sneak peek into what they expect to face this time round after dominating last year as he thanked SportPesa for holding their hands.
“What we should expect this year is a lot of preparation from Uganda and what we can see is that they have gone ahead and beefed up their team. We might have gotten them a bit off guard last year, but I expect they will be ready this time. Nonetheless, we are up to the task as we have been training well for the trip,” he assured.
Osir expressed the Legends’ delight with the SportPesa partnership saying it will ensure that upcoming youth can witness their heroes in action, learning from their prowess and passion for rugby while fostering a vibrant community of talent where rugby continues to thrive in the years to come.
Last year, the Kenyan legends won 6-38 in the away trip in Uganda before picking a 31-12 victory at home to clinch the 2023 Legends Cup. The squad that has the likes of celebrated Shujaa icon Collins Injera, Lavin Asego, George Mbaye, Oscar Sudi, Moses Mukabane and team Captain Eddie Omondi will play the first leg on 8 June at the Kings Park Arena in Kampala before the return fixture a week later in Nairobi.
Among others, the partnership includes engaging activities such as coaching and mentorship sessions for young talent and tournaments lined up for the Legends, among other rugby development plans under the Tujiamini Initiative that will be announced once they come on stream.
By Michael Omondi
