Kisii High School's Royal Shikanga is challenged by Benjamin Eceru and Joseph Otieno of Upper Hill School in Term 1 national games, in Kisumu. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]
History is a notoriously heavy burden in schools’ sports where defending a title is a feat that more often than not borders on the impossible.
Year in, year out, champions have crumbled under the heavy weight of the crown, broken by the sheer attrition of the tournament. Reigning East Africa rugby 15s champions Kisii School have their work cut out as they go into this year’s Federation of East Africa Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) games that begin on Friday in Morogoro, Tanzania, to protect their throne.
Competing in a ruthless round-robin format where every single try, conversion, penalty kick, move and decision counts like gold, there will be no second chances and zero room for error. Their past glory will count for nothing, because to defend their title, they must conquer a formidable lineup of regional heavy weights, old rivals and underdogs hungry for the crown.
While securing the title last year was an epic achievement, defending it against opponents gunning for their scalp will be their real test. Unlike knockout stages where a temporary lapse can be salvaged, the round-robin format demands relentless consistency. Every duel is a heavyweight bout as teams seek to secure not just victory but bonus points that would put them above the opponents.
For Kisii School coach Edwin Morara, this year’s contest is the ultimate stress test of their depth, discipline and tactical adaptability.
“We have a very tough task because every team is coming to dethrone us. We are well prepared for the challenge because after the nationals we went back and analysed our performance. We looked at our errors and areas we needed to strengthen and we have worked tirelessly to correct our mistakes and I believe that we are stronger and ready to defend our title,” Morara said.