Teaching More Than Just Rugby
At DBA Africa, sport has always been about more than competition. Through its partnership with Japanese corporate WaziWazi, the DBA-WaziWazi Academy is redefining youth rugby by integrating life skills training into every aspect of player and coach development. The academy isn’t just aiming to produce talented rugby players, it is also about shaping disciplined, confident, and resilient young people who are prepared for challenges beyond the game.

By combining high level coaching with specific life skills, this collaboration is creating a new standard for sports-based youth development programmes in Kenya. Players are not only learning perfect tackle technique and game-winning strategies but also how to overcome adversity, communincate, and lead with confidence.

Stronger Players, Smarter Decision-Makers
Sport is a powerful tool for building character. At the DBA-WaziWazi Academy, players are taught how to handle setbacks, make quick decisions under pressure, and develop the discipline required to succeed both in rugby and in life. Many young athletes struggle with self-doubt or the pressure of competition, but through adding in life skills to each and every training, they are learning more, which benifits them inside the classroom.

A key benefit of this approach is the impact on game performance. Players who develop resilience and emotional intelligence respond better to high-pressure situations, read the game more effectively, and work as a cohesive unit with their teammates. Confidence on the field translates into confidence off it, helping them excel in school, leadership roles, and future careers.

A New Way of Coaching
This shift in player development has also changed how coaches approach training. The partnership with WaziWazi has pushed DBA’s coaches to think beyond rugby and focus on mentorship, emotional intelligence, and leadership development, aspects which are taught within the game, but not necessarily in isolation. Instead of simply teaching skills and tactics, they are now shaping well-rounded athletes who understand the values of teamwork, perseverance, and respect.

By challenging traditional coaching methods, DBA’s academy is setting a new standard for sports training. Coaches now emphasise personal development, ensuring that every young athlete is not just physically prepared for competition, but also mentally and emotionally equipped for life’s challenges.

A Partnership Changing the Future
The DBA-WaziWazi Academy is proving that sport is more than just competition, it’s a platform for shaping futures. With WaziWazi’s backing, DBA Africa is developing not just skilled athletes, but also strong, ambitious young leaders who will make an impact in their communities and beyond.