Abuto recounts Swiss rugby adventure, eyeing Swiss Cup with Hermance Région

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Backrower Alvin Abuto is relishing his time with the Swiss side, Hermance Région Rugby Club, having joined the squad in September 2023.

The former University of Eldoret (UoE) Trojans player recently opened up about his first season with the club, highlighting both the rewarding and challenging aspects of his experience.

Abuto’s reflection

The player candidly noted the difficulties he faced adjusting to the colder climate, a stark contrast to what he was used to in Kenya.

“Playing in Switzerland is really great, but it has its challenges like harsh weather, and it was really hard to adapt at first,” Abuto told Scrummage Africa in an interview.

Despite the initial struggles, Abuto has found playing in Switzerland’s top division to be a learning curve, especially given that he landed this opportunity without prior Kenya Cup experience.

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“I have learned a lot of things from this side. Coming from a team in the championship, UOE, and not being able to play in the Kenya Cup, landing here and playing in the top division is amazing. I have gained more game knowledge, more experience on how to play my role on the field, and more confidence. If I compare when I joined to now, I’m still learning more as time goes by,” he added.

Abuto chasing trophy

Abuto’s season has been marked by a semi-final exit in the Championship league and a final appearance against RC Yverdon in the Swiss Cup, slated for this weekend. He is hopeful of securing silverware to cap off his inaugural season.

“This being my first season with my team, I can say we have performed well. We got knocked out in the semi-finals of the championship league, which was heartbreaking. On the good side, we qualified for the Swiss Cup final that will be played on 22nd June. We are focused and praying for that win,” he revealed.

Looking ahead, Abuto is eager to achieve more in rugby, continue learning about the game, and remain open to new opportunities.

“My target is to achieve a lot in rugby, learn more about the game, be open if I get other opportunities, and also to pass knowledge and opportunities to others,” he concluded.