The DBA Dream Team had a clean sweep during their tour of Uganda, winning all their matches and returning on Monday with heads held high.
They kicked off the tour with a 50–5 victory over St. Christopher’s International School in a build-up match, before making a stop in Nakuru where they defeated the DBA Nakuru Select side 33–3.
DBA Dream Team
In Uganda, the team faced a determined Kyadondo Academy outfit, which featured players from the Futures Cup 24 Kampala Giants—winners of the 2024 Futures Cup. Despite torrential rain, a try by Danvas Mwangi and kicks by Frederick Okoth and Thomas Sichange sealed a 13–5 win for the visitors.
Sunday’s clash against Rams Academy proved just as intense. Tries from Adrian Abwanga and Garang Manyang, along with a crucial penalty by Sichange, delivered a hard-earned 13–11 win.
The squad—comprising 24 of Kenya’s most promising U16 players—embarked on this eight-day international tour as part of the DBA Futures Cup Dream Team.
These young talents were drawn from seven different regions across Kenya: Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Mombasa, Kakamega, Eldoret, and Machakos. Just months prior, they had faced off as rivals at the 2024 DBA Futures Cup. Now, they stood united.
But the tour was about more than just rugby results. As they travelled from city to city, the players were immersed in new cultures, stunning landscapes, and different ways of life. In Kampala, they had the opportunity to watch the DBA Lacrosse Academy train—broadening their understanding of youth sports beyond rugby.
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They gained insights from seasoned coaches and mentors, learned valuable lessons, and forged strong bonds through shared stories, meals, and experiences. The tour nurtured resilience, leadership, and pride—qualities that will shape their futures both on and off the pitch.
After their final game, the team watched Uganda’s top-tier league match between Heathens and Victoria, where DBA Coach Mongo featured—a powerful reminder of the heights achievable through hard work and belief.
The return journey was just as symbolic. After crossing the border late Sunday, the team set off at 5:30 a.m. Monday, stopping in Kisumu, Nakuru, and Nairobi before eventually reaching Mombasa. The coastal players completed the last leg of the journey on an overnight bus.
At every stop, a teammate stepped off—not just with a kit bag, but with new memories, bigger dreams, and a clearer vision of their future.
“This tour has been nothing short of transformational,” said DBA Director Storm Trentham. “To watch these boys grow as individuals, bond as a team, and compete with such heart was incredible. This is the power of youth sports programmes—unlocking potential not just on the pitch, but in life. The next chapter for these players will be bigger and better. Opportunities are already being found and presented to DBA for these athletes. Watch this space.”
DBA Dream Team
Match Results:
- Vs SCIC: 50–5
- Vs DBA Nakuru Select: 33–3
- Vs Kyadondo Academy (UG): 13–5
- Vs RAMS Academy (UG): 13–11
