Kabras Sugar RFC coach Carlos Katywa believes mental fortitude will be key for his charges as they seek to win the Kenya Cup for the third year in a row.
Speaking Tuesday in a wide-ranging interview, the South African tactician said the mental awareness of the squad will determine how they fare in the 2023-2024 season.
“Physically and from a talent point, we are in a good space. We had a good pre-season and now the boys need the mental strength that is required for the season. They must have the desire and hunger to win the league for the third time,” added Katywa.
To that effect, the sugar millers are keen to employ a mental skills coach for the upcoming season.
“We are seeking to have a mental skills coach preferably one who is orientated with rugby to complement the work done by the rugby coaches. We hope to have one as the season gets along so that by the time we get to the business end of the season, we are at our peak both mentally and physically," observed Katywa.
Katywa said they are keen to go unbeaten for the second year running and retain both the Kenya and Enterprise Cup titles. “Our target is to win both trophies as we did last season and yes, go unbeaten yet again," he added.
The sugar millers lost the services of inspirational skipper Dan Sikuta but the coach insists the continuity in the squad is great.
“Most of our players who played last season are still intact and the continuity is key if we are to have a successful season,” he added.
Katywa said a resurgent Quins and Blak Blad could be the surprises of the new season.
"Quins have done good recruitment and have a good coach. On their day, they can beat anyone. Blak Blad are playing with good structure and shape. So it promises to be an interesting season with these two teams plus KCB and Oilers who will be in the running for the title."
He said through their development and age-grade programme, headed by Edwin Acahyo, they are training stars of the future.
“We have three young robust players who just finished high school and we are looking at them being part of the team in the years to come," said Katywa.
Following their 72-10 win over Kisumu in their opening Kenya Cup match, Katywa's charges make the long trip to Nairobi to face Nondies on Saturday.
