Ervin Kanyanya, widely recognized as Kanya, is a name that reverberates throughout rugby circles. Despite his modest 55kg frame, he impressed as a back-row player with unparalleled industriousness on the field.
His ability to tackle any opponent became legendary, cementing his reputation as a formidable force in rugby.
Ervin Kanyanya start
Kanya’s journey into the world of rugby began during his time at the renowned Musingu School, where he was introduced to the sport by none other than his cousin and deskmate.
Ervin Kanyanya and teammates at Kisii. PHOTO/Kisii RFC
“I was inspired by one Henry Ayah who was my deskmate and a cousin called Brian Wekewa who were both flyhalfs in Musingu,” Kanya told Scrummage Africa.
Transitioning from being a defence enforcer on the rugby field to a law enforcer was a significant shift for Kanya. Reflecting on his retirement from rugby, he acknowledges that it was a decision not made lightly. However, he recognized the necessity of moving on to the next chapter of his life
“It ain’t a cheap decision but there is a time that comes in life, where you decide to chase after life now that we are ageing,” he elaborated.
Before retiring from the game, Kanya showcased his talent with Western Bulls in the Kenya Cup straight out of high school. He then made a move to Kisii RFC, where he not only played but also assumed the role of captain, becoming one of the youngest captains in the Kenya Cup.
Looking back on his playing days, Kanya reminisces about the unforgettable experience of leading Kisii RFC at such a young age.
“My memorable moments were when we won against Mwamba in the Kenya Cup while I was plying trading for Kisii despite being seen as underdog. My Kenya Cup debut at Western Bulls as we played Strathmore. When I was appointed the captain during the Kenya Cup season despite my young age,” Kanya said.
As someone who values discipline, Kanya intends to leverage the lessons learned on the rugby field in his new career path. He recognizes the importance of discipline in both sports and law enforcement, and he is determined to apply the same level of dedication and commitment to his role as a law enforcer.
“Discipline cuts across the two therefore this is a virtue that I will use on this other end,” he narrated
He highlighted that he misses the rugby field.
“Right now I do not have that freedom of going to the rugby field the way I used to previously. The job is time-consuming and I really miss rugby big time.”
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Kanya is strategizing to harness the virtues and lessons garnered during his illustrious rugby career to propel himself to higher ranks within the law enforcement force.
He intends to utilize the principles of teamwork, discipline, and leadership that he honed on the rugby field to excel in his professional endeavours and make a meaningful impact in his new role.
Despite retiring from active play, Kanya expresses his intention to maintain a strong connection to the sport of rugby.
He is keen on becoming more actively involved, whether through coaching, mentoring young players, or contributing to the development of rugby in his community.
“Once you join rugby you cannot leave it. For now, what I can offer the sport is giving back to society by supporting young generations to help develop Kenyan rugby. Also, I’ll be in the stands more often,” he added.
Ervin Kanyanya encouragement
Kanya extends his encouragement to fellow rugby players who may be considering a career shift into the force.
“Rugby and police are almost similar, talk of discipline, self-determination hard work etc. They should try out joining forces for the sake of their future. Rugby isn’t a lifetime thing as our country has not invested in it. There comes a time when you would need to settle in life,” Kanya advised.
Ervin Kanyanya in police gear. PHOTO/Ervin Kanyanya
The former forward expresses profound gratitude for the unwavering support of his family throughout his life’s journey.
“My family is supportive of me and everything that I do. So joining the forces was not an issue to them. My mom at first was not of the idea of me playing rugby but she came to conquer with the fact that I must play,” he concluded.
