On Monday, 24 of Kenya’s most promising U16 rugby players returned from a journey they will never forget, an 8-day international rugby tour to Uganda on the DBA Futures Cup Dream Team (FCDT).

These boys, drawn from seven diverse regions across Kenya, including Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Mombasa, Kakamega, Eldoret, and Machakos, had once faced each other as rivals at the 2024 DBA Futures Cup tournament. Selected for their talent and determination, they now united as teammates, carrying with them not just rugby skills, but the unique spirit and culture of their communities.

From Rivals to Teammates

What began as a collection of talented individuals quickly transformed into something deeper, a true team. Over just a few days, they trained, travelled, competed, and shared experiences together. From different counties, schools, backgrounds, and languages, they learned to play as one. On the field, they built trust. Off the field, they built friendships. This was about more than sport, it was a life-changing experience that showed what unity, leadership, and shared goals can achieve.

A Tour of Growth and Grit

The adventure kicked off with a training camp at St. Christopher’s International School in Nairobi, where the team laid their foundations. From there, the squad headed to Uganda, playing four games in eight days and remaining undefeated throughout.

Match Results:

• ⁠ ⁠Vs SCIC: 50–5
• ⁠ ⁠Vs DBA Nakuru Select: 33–3
• ⁠ ⁠Vs Kyadondo Academy (UG): 13–5
• ⁠ ⁠Vs RAMS Academy (UG): 13–11

Each game presented a new challenge, whether it was rain, altitude, or fierce opposition, but the team rose to the occasion with heart and composure. Saturday’s win over Kyadondo Academy, which included players from the FC24 Kampala Giants (2024 Futures Cup champions), came under torrential rain. A try by Danvas Mwangi, and kicks by Frederick Okoth and Thomas Sichange, sealed the 13–5 victory.

Sunday’s match against Rams Academy was just as tough. Tries by Andrian Abwanga and Garang Manyang, along with another crucial penalty by Sichange, brought a hard-earned 13–11 win.

Beyond the Game

The tour was about far more than match results. As they travelled from city to city, the players experienced new cultures, landscapes, and perspectives. In Kampala, they watched the DBA Lacrosse Academy train, expanding their view of youth sport. They learned from seasoned coaches, mentors, and athletes, and spent quality time together, swapping stories and sharing meals.

These moments taught resilience, leadership, and pride, lessons that will shape their futures both on and off the field. After their final match, the boys gathered in the stands to watch Uganda’s top league clash, Heathens vs Victoria, where DBA Coach Mongo played, a powerful reminder of what’s possible through dedication and belief.

A Journey Home Full of Heart

The return journey was just as meaningful. After crossing the border late Sunday, the team set off at 5:30 a.m. on Monday morning. The bus rolled across Kenya, stopping along the way in Kisumu, Nakuru, Nairobi, and finally making its way toward Mombasa, where the coastal players completed the last leg of the journey on an overnight bus.

At every stop, a teammate stepped off, carrying more than a kit bag, they carried memories, new dreams, and goals for the future.

“This tour has been nothing short of transformational,” said DBA Director Storm Trentham.  “To watch these boys, grow as individuals, bond as a team, and compete with such heart was incredible. This is the power of youth sports programmes, unlocking potential not just on the pitch, but in life.  The next chapter for these players will be bigger and better, opportunities are already being found and presented to DBA for these athletes. Watch this space”.

Thank You

Thanks to our incredible coaches, managers, and support staff, the tour was safe, inspiring, and full of impact. No serious injuries. Four wins. One unstoppable family.