CUEA Monks step up preparations ahead of Kenya Cup kick off

Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) Monks’ head coach Simon Jawichre has shared insights into the team's preparation ahead of the much-anticipated 2023/24 Kenya Cup season.

Monks who were promoted to the Kenya Cup side in 2022 defied all odds to remain in the competitive top-tier league. They ended their campaign in 10th position with 14 points.

Having tested the waters, the students are now aware of the league's competitive nature and will be looking to shine.

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Speaking on the team's preparedness, Jawichre said that some of their players were in pre-season training even before the completion of the National 7s Circuit. The circuit ended on September 10 with KCB Rugby being crowned the winners.

"For the pre-season, we had especially the front five do specialized strength and conditioning training even before the conclusion of the 7s Circuit though many didn't show up until we commenced this semester," the coach offered.

The students will welcome Kenya Harlequins in the first game of the season before traveling to Nakuru City to lock horns with Nakuru RFC.

They will then host Strathmore Leos in the third match of the season. The tactician anticipates an uphill task in the opening three matches.

In readiness for that, he noted that the students were polishing their defense and set pieces to topple their opponents.

"All areas of the game remain key, but with the new fixtures, we start with three heavy outings. We have placed emphasis on defense and set pieces," he told Mozzart Sport.

Coach Jawichre who is heavy on development also noted that their fans would be treated to fresh talent who have seamlessly gelled with the rest of the team. This will enhance depth and versatility in his squad.

“The players who were new last season have grown. I wouldn't particularly have specific players, but generally, quite a number of the older players have moved on. We do have freshers whom we intend to throw into the deep end," he pointed out.

For the visionary gaffer, the aim was to make the institution home for persons who wished to pursue their education as well as hone their athletics prowess.

"The long-term goal is to make our team a mainstay in this part of town, and a destination of choice for those who want to play top-level rugby as they dabble with education," he confidently assured.

The CUEA sports complex has molded pivot players like KCB Rugby backrower Peter Waitere and the late James Kilonzo. Talented Menengai Oilers’ scrum-half Samson Onsomu had a short stint there as well.

During the World Rugby U20 trophy held in Nairobi in July, the CUEA Monks fed the national team with key players like Mike Wamalwa, George Otieno, Jeremy Odhiambo, and Zephenes Obwanga.