Kenya Harlequin Co-captain Amon Wamalwa has credited former Kenya 7s star Willy Ambaka with having a significant impact on their successful National 7s Circuit campaign.
Speaking during the Scrummage Africa Monday Night X Space session, Wamalwa revealed that Ambaka played a crucial role as the team’s Strength and Conditioning coach during preseason.
Ambaka setting foundation
His demanding sessions laid the foundation for their performance throughout the season.
Kenya 7s forward Willy Ambaka tries to evade against Tonga. Photo Courtesy/World Rugby
“Talking about our preparation, it wasn’t easy. It was tough under former Kenya 7s player Willy Ambaka, who was our SnC coach in the preseason. Training was intense, and we faced several challenges, but we started dreaming of winning during those sessions. Ambaka reminded us that the road wouldn’t be easy. Waking up early and leaving late from training was hard,” Wamalwa shared.
The former Kenya U20 player acknowledged that the team remained confident and driven throughout the campaign, determined to end the club’s long wait for a title.
“We believed in ourselves. Our motto was ‘Believe you can do it.’ The last time Quins won the Circuit was in 2012, and many of us were still kids. I was 11 years old and in primary school back then. We worked hard, knowing that others would believe in us, but most importantly, we believed in ourselves,” he added.
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Wamalwa also highlighted the positive impact of Kenyan internationals Herman Humwa and Richel Wangila, whose involvement gave the squad a significant boost.
“Humwa brought a wealth of experience. Though he seemed uncertain about fitting in after returning from international duty, since he missed preseason, he made a big difference. Richel Wangila’s contribution was also massive,” he concluded.
Kenya Harlequin success
Kenya Harlequin finished the National 7s Circuit with 110 points, joining Impala, Mwamba RFC, and KCB Rugby as one of the most successful sides in the competition’s history.
kenya Harlequin Charles Kinyajui celebrates at Christie 7s. PHOTO/Tabby Nashipae
Their 2024 victory marked their fourth overall win, following previous triumphs in 2005, 2006, and 2012.
