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13 January 2025

DBA – Wazi Wazi Rugby Academy Kicks Off 2025, Shaping Kenya’s Future Rugby Stars

The 2025 season of DBA Rugby Academies kicked off on Sunday at Kenton College, marking the fourth year of the Nairobi-based Academy. With an additional six satellite academies spread throughout Kenya’s regions added last year, DBA Africa continues to grow talent, provide access to quality coaching and equipment, and expand rugby at the community level.

Structured Talent Development: A Game-Changer

The role of structured talent development in Rugby has never been more crucial. DBA Africa’s Rugby Academy program has become a cornerstone for aspiring future stars, offering young athletes from diverse regions the chance to hone their skills and achieve their dreams.

Inspired by sports models in countries like South Africa, where professional clubs and independent academies work beyond school rugby, DBA aims to elevate Kenyan rugby to international standards. With academies in Coast, Rift Valley, Western Kenya, and Nairobi, the next big step is playing regular fixtures to test the skills learned at the academies and prepare athletes for the next level of competition.

DBA Rugby Development and Strategic Partnerships

At the heart of DBA’s success is its commitment to collaboration and partnerships. The academies work closely with local rugby clubs, schools, and communities, creating a seamless pathway for players.

A standout example is DBA’s partnership with Wazi-Waz, which has brought valuable resources and opportunities to the program. Through this partnership, Academy Coach Patrice Agunda spent a month in Japan, shadowing top academies, meeting national team coaches, and observing preparations for international fixtures like Japan vs. England. Experiences like these not only elevate the quality of coaching but also bring global insights to Kenyan rugby.

Opportunities in Women’s Sports in Kenya

Kenyan women’s rugby continues to grow, but challenges such as limited resources and opportunities persist. DBA Rugby Academies aim to change this by offering equal opportunities for young women to play the game and providing employment opportunities for current and former players as coaches, event organizers, and academy coordinators.

With Kenyan Lionesses making a name for themselves finishing second at the Rugby 7s Challenger series, young female athletes have role models to look up to. DBA is giving these girls a platform to chase their dreams and ensuring women’s rugby in Kenya receives the attention and development it deserves.

DBA Africa’s Nationwide Impact

DBA Africa currently operates six academies across Kenya, focusing on players aged U11–18. By targeting a enrollment of over 600 young athletes in 2025, the program supports and enhances local rugby structures without replacing them.

Drawing inspiration from South Africa’s successful development systems, DBA bridges the gap between school rugby and professional leagues. This approach ensures that Kenyan rugby develops holistically, producing well-rounded players ready for national and international challenges.

Developing Beyond Rugby

DBA’s academies go beyond teaching rugby. They instill life skills, discipline, and teamwork, preparing athletes for life off the field. By emphasizing education alongside sports, DBA is nurturing future leaders.

The program reaches underserved communities, offering opportunities to children who might never have dreamed of playing rugby competitively. This dual focus on sport and personal growth makes DBA unique in its impact.

Academy Manager Phillip Wamae expressed his excitement for the 2025 season, highlighting the program’s growth and its impact on young athletes.

“This year marks a new chapter for the DBA Rugby Academies,” said Wamae. “We’re not just teaching rugby; we’re shaping well-rounded individuals who will excel both on and off the field. Our goal is to inspire over 600 kids this year, helping them reach their potential in rugby and academics. We’re proud to see the strides DBA academy kids made last year, and we’re looking forward to building on this momentum.”

As the 2025 season begins, DBA Africa is poised to continue shaping the future stars of rugby while empowering communities. With strategic partnerships, a focus on inclusivity, and a commitment to women’s sports, DBA is redefining sports development in Africa.

To stay updated on the incredible journey of DBA Rugby Academies, follow DBA Africa on Instagram and be part of this transformative movement in sports development in Africa.

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