In the dynamic landscape of Kenyan women’s rugby, one name is emerging as a beacon of talent, Beatrice Osimbo, the 21-year-old Shamberere RFC captain.
Following her debut in the Kenya Cup Women’s League, Osimbo is dreaming big, setting her sights on becoming a big name in the Kenya women’s rugby books despite facing challenges at the outset of her rugby career while drawing inspiration from Kenya Lionesses and Mwamba RFC full-back Diana Omoso.
Beatrice Osimbo’s passion
Osimbo’s journey in rugby has been marked by resilience and passion. Despite initial resistance from her parents, who believed rugby was not a suitable pursuit for their daughter, Osimbo remained steadfast in her commitment to the sport.
Beatrice Osimbo in past Shamberere match. PHOTO/Beatrice Osimbo
“Starting up, my parents didn’t like the whole idea of me playing rugby, emphasizing the sport was meant for men, it was tough but thanks to my coach Edwin Achayo who through his help we managed to convince them and later on accepted,” she told the Scrummage in an exclusive interview.
Additionally, Osimbo finds inspiration from notable figures in Kenyan rugby, such as Lamec Ambetsa, the electrifying Kabras RFC and Shujaa winger, Mwamba’s Terry Ayesa, Phoebe Akinyi and Esther Juma from Impala RFC. Their guidance and advice have been invaluable in shaping Osimbo’s approach to the game, instilling in her the confidence to overcome obstacles and strive for excellence.
Reflecting on the challenges she has encountered, Osimbo candidly shared that her lowest moment as a team captain was Shameberere RFC’s 81-0 loss to Mwamba in a Kenya Cup semi-final tie.
“Our 81-00 loss to Mwamba was my lowest moment in my rugby journey, as a captain I felt like I had failed everyone and it’s done” she opened up.
However, she sees such setbacks as opportunities for growth and is committed to leading her team to greater success in the future.
“As a captain and a leader you have to carry the cross, so I always take lessons in such losses and stay positive towards the upcoming” she added.
EDITOR’S PICKS:
- David Mayabi’s dual dance
- Follow us on Scrummage Africa FB
- The story of Moreen Muritu
- Bethuel Anami’s unforgettable chapters
Osimbo who is a first-year general agriculture student at Shamberere Institute says she looks forward to donning the national team colours (Kenya Lionesses)
“I really want to play for Kenya Lionesses in the future and also Mwamba RFC, it’s a big club with a rich history but for now fully focused on helping Shamberere perform better,” she noted.
The former Shieywe secondary school alumnus further admitted to remaining indebted to some individuals.
“I will always remain indebted to Coach Edwin Achayo for introducing me to rugby, My coach George Nyambua and George Meso I owe them respect, they have walked the journey with me and always make me believe that I can be a better player,” she told the Scrummage.
Beatrice Osimbo’s best moment
Osimbo attributed her Impala call-up to play in the Floodies as the highest moment in her rugby journey.
“When I received the message that am supposed to go and play for Impala, it melted my heart since Impala is a top club, I enjoyed the reception and every moment I spent in Nairobi” she voiced.
Osimbo who plays as a fly-half and winger has been instrumental for newly promoted Kenya Cup outfit Shamberere in their debut season.
