Kenya Rugby Sevens’ rising star Patrick Odongo is one of over 30 beneficiaries of the ‘Beyond the Try’ initiative, a programme aimed at providing scholarships to promising but needy rugby players.
Odongo, 21, is a standout rugby talent from Daystar University. The initiative, which began in 2019, has worked closely with institutions like Daystar University to scout and develop talent while offering opportunities that extend beyond the pitch.
“The scholarship has provided me with immense opportunities to pursue my studies. I’ve benefited from it for four years and it has opened doors not only for me but also to many other upcoming players,” Odongo said.
He added: “Through my talent, I’ve gained more than enough to support my education. Tournaments like the annual Touch Rugby in July offered me a platform to showcase my skills under the watch of ‘Beyond the Try’ initiative.”
“We’ve collaborated with Daystar University for years, making it easier to identify talent and monitor players’ progress,” said tournament director Caleb Bosire.
“This programme is more than just scoring tries as it equips players for life after rugby by providing an education alongside their rugby commitments.”
The initiative has supported about 20 players since 2021, some of whom have gone on to represent Kenya at various levels, including three who proceeded to play in Scotland and five who featured in the Kenya U20 squad.
The programme’s funding comes from club revenue, merchandise sales and contributions from well-wishers. So far, it has raised Sh518,000 over the last two years.
“We conduct trials to select players from national and regional pools. Schools like Maseno, Vihiga, Kakamega and St. Mary’s Yala have been key scouting grounds,” Bosire added.
He added: “We focus on identifying Form Four students and transition them to clubs like KCB and Oilers or join other professional paths after their exams.”
The programme also envisions growth with plans to introduce soft skills training and expand its age grade to include primary school children.
“With more funding, we can sponsor younger players and nurture talent the right way,” Bosire emphasised.
Looking ahead, Bosire is already shifting focus to the regular 15’s season set to kick off in November with the Impala Floodlights tournament in mid-October as the first hurdle for the Falcons’ second-tier team.
