Last Weekend marked the end of an unforgettable chapter for Rayvon Ambale, a young Kenyan rugby player whose journey from the school circuit in Kakamega, Western Kenya to competing in the UK has been nothing short of inspiring. Playing his final game for Bryanston School at Rosslyn Park, Ray closed this incredible experience on a high note, leaving a lasting impact on his team and proving the value of sports scholarships in transforming young athletes’ futures.

From Kakamega to the UK: A Rugby Scholarship Success Story

Two years ago, Rayvon was lighting up the Kenya school rugby scene. In 2023, Bryanston School took a chance on him, offering a scholarship that set him on a new path. Since then, he has played at the prestigious Rosslyn Park tournament twice, completed a season with Bath Rugby Academy, and received unwavering support from his coaches, teammates, and supporters.

His journey shows the opportunities that rugby scholarships can provide for talented East African junior athletes. Bryanston’s commitment to fostering international talent has not only benefited him but has also sparked interest from other UK schools. Several players from Kenya’s U13 and U15 international school sides that competed at Rosslyn Park are now in discussions with top institutions about potential scholarships.

Final Game at Rosslyn Park: A Performance to Remember

Rays last tournament with Bryanston Rugby was nothing short of exceptional. The team dominated their pool stage with three commanding wins before narrowly missing out in the knockout rounds. Forest’s individual stats were phenomenal:

• 9 tries in 4 games
• 15 conversions from 17
• 75-point average per game

His performance on the field showcased his skill, determination, and the impact of high-level coaching and competition.

The Future of East African Rugby Scholarships

Bryanston School has set a strong precedent by investing in East African rugby talent. The hope now is that they continue this legacy by offering scholarships to more players from the region. With Kenyan rugby on the rise and an increasing number of young players proving themselves on the international stage, the future looks bright for aspiring athletes seeking similar opportunities.

DBA Africa, through its commitment to sports development, continues to champion pathways for young rugby players. By building strong relationships with schools like Bryanston and other UK institutions, the aim is to ensure that more Kenyan and East African players have the chance to develop their skills at the highest level.

As Forest prepares for his final term of exams, while mixing in some athletics his journey serves as an inspiration for many. The dream doesn’t stop here.

For more updates on rugby scholarships, youth sports development programmes, and East African sports talent, stay connected with DBA Africa.