Kenya Sevens' forward Herman Humwa believes defence and kickoff reception will be areas of focus as they intensify training for the Paris Olympic Games.
Shujaa have been in Miramas, South of France for the last week and the rangy burly forward said they are acclimatising well to the weather conditions.
“It has been an intense seven days solidifying our defensive alignment, tackle technique as well as the kickoff, which has been one of our strong points but we know we can get better,” added Humwa.
The Quins forward, who will be making his second appearance at the Olympics, said they have been studying footage on Argentina and Australia—two sides who they have not met.
Shujaa are yet to play Argentina and Australia since they were relegated to the Challenger Series last year.
" Argentina and Australia are the top two teams in the pool and very well-coached sides. We have done our homework on them and we will be ready to face them. The nature of Sevens is very unpredictable and we will give it our best shot," added Humwa.
The Quins' Sevens skipper said the young squad are fearless and ready to do the country proud despite the lack of experience at the Olympics.
“The young lads are up to the task and have no fear for the so-called big nations of Sevens rugby," he said.
The 29-year-old is delighted to play in his second Olympics after a knee injury almost brought an end to his career two seasons ago.
“ It was challenging in the 2022/2023 season. I went through treatment and rehabilitation and it was not easy. At one point, I thought of throwing in the towel but close friends advised me not to give up,” he revealed.
Paris will be the second Olympics and the experienced forward can't wait to get to the Athletes' Village this time with no restrictions like Covid-19 during the Tokyo Games.
“It's a dream to come true to play in the Olympics. we did not get to explore the Olympics because of restrictions of the pandemic but now with everything back to normalcy, I believe it will be a good experience for us all," noted Humwa.
The team head to the Olympic Village on Friday with Shujaa set to face Argentina on July 24.
