Emmanuel Mavala is set to make his Kenya Cup comeback next season, scheduled to kick off in November, after a three-year break.
During his time away, Mavala focused on personal development and CrossFit, earning the title of fittest man for two consecutive years. He also pursued the goal of becoming the fittest man in Africa.
Emmanuel Mavala absence
“I have been working out and handling personal matters, training here and there. I’ve done CrossFit for three years, aiming to be the fittest man in Kenya and Africa. That’s why I stepped away. I’ve managed to be the fittest in the country for the past two years,” Mavala told Scrummage Africa.
Kenya Harlequin Lucky Dewald with a scrum pick at the Safari 7s. PHOTO/Mahlon Lichuma
When asked if his CrossFit experience would influence his rugby performance, Mavala acknowledged the differences between CrossFit and rugby fitness but expressed confidence in his return, highlighting the need to focus on match fitness.
“I think CrossFit will play a huge role, though the fitness is different. There’s rugby fitness and general fitness. But CrossFit fitness aligns closely with rugby, so my main focus will be on improving match fitness,” he explained.
The former Homeboyz Rugby and RC Orkan Sochaczew backrower tested his readiness by participating in sevens rugby in the Safari 7s with Kenya Harlequin last weekend before fully committing to 15s.
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“I’ve been the fittest for two years, and I saw sevens as the best way to gauge myself. With its fast pace and open spaces, it’s a perfect fitness test. It was important to start there before transitioning back to 15s,” Mavala noted.
Looking ahead, Mavala promised fans an energized presence on the field and reiterated his ambition to play professionally abroad.
“Expect a committed number seven, a leader, and an energized individual. My goal is not just to represent the national team but also to play internationally,” he concluded.
Kenya Harlequin players huddle. PHOTO/Kenya Harlequin/Instagram
Mavala initially joined Kenya Harlequin in November 2020, and his return will be highly anticipated in the upcoming season.
Watch Mavala’s full interview:
