Blak Blad’s Victor Wakhungila made a long-awaited return to rugby in 2024 after a four-year break, during which he says the sport relentlessly called him back.
Wakhungila had last played for Kabras RFC against Blak Blad in the Eric Shirley Shield before stepping away from the game due to work commitments and being stationed in an area without access to rugby.
Victor Wakhungila’s absence
In an interview with Scrummage Africa, Wakhungila revealed that his demanding job and location made it difficult for him to continue playing.
“I got employed, and my profession was so demanding. The place where I was situated, I couldn’t get access to any rugby field,” he explained.
Despite being away, the love for the game never left him. He admitted that watching rugby from afar made him feel envious and restless.
“Taking four years off wasn’t that easy, but the love for the game never fades. It’s the kind of game that stays with you. You can step away, but the fire doesn’t go out,” Wakhungila said. “This sport stays with you, nags at you, and that pull never goes away. I had to get back out there.”
Returning to rugby, especially in the faster-paced 7s format, required immense fitness, something Wakhungila struggled with initially. However, his participation in Judo helped him gain some fitness.
“Fitness was no walk in the park. I struggled, which is why I missed the first four legs. But my involvement in Judo really helped me alongside rugby training,” he added.
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Wakhungila’ return to the National 7s Circuit was nothing short of spectacular. He notched 33 points for Blak Blad, helping them achieve their best finish of the season by defeating his former side, Kabras RFC, to finish third. His performance earned him the title of top points scorer at the Driftwood 7s.
Speaking about the award on his 7s comeback, Wakhungila expressed pure joy. “It was pure, unfiltered joy. The kind of happiness that hits you deep, the kind that makes your heart race. My heart was soaring, my spirit alive, and in that moment, I was truly, deeply happy. I mean, four years!” he exclaimed.
Now that he’s back, Wakhungila is determined to give his all on the pitch, despite the challenges of balancing his job and rugby.
“My greatest target is simply to play to the fullest, to give everything I have on the field, and reach the top of my game. Balancing it with my current job isn’t easy, but the love for rugby keeps driving me forward,” he shared.
Victor Wakhungilaon Blad display
He concluded by commending Blak Blad’s outstanding run in the 7s circuit, hailing the students’ unmatched determination and resilience.
“Blak Blad had an incredible run in the 7s circuit this season, despite the hurdles. The heart and determination of the students were unmatched. It was one of Blad’s best 7s runs,” Wakhungila remarked.
