T. NashipaeKenya Lionesses star Everlyne Kalemera reveals next step after calling it a day
Reading Time: 3min | Wed. 15.11.23. | 15:02
She plans to focus on her professional development, which she had partially put on hold during her rugby career.
Former Kenya Lionesses utility prop Everlyne Kelemera has shifted her focus to career advancement after an impressive five years of representing the Kenya women’s national rugby team; Lionesses.
The 39-year-old who is an office administrative assistant by profession ended her professional rugby career on a high after Lionesses spanked Uganda Lady Cranes 87-3 in the Elgon Cup match played at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium on Saturday.
She plans to focus on her professional development, which she had partially put on hold during her rugby career.
"Upfront, right now am focusing on my career advancement, I am an Office Administrative Assistant by profession, am looking towards some pending promotional opportunities, so I am pursuing the relevant courses," the vintage player offered.
However, she will continue to be involved in the rugby community, continuing to play for the Mwamba Rugby Club and coaching aspiring young athletes.
The prop who holds various World Rugby badges under her belt, eagerly anticipates the opportunity to take on non-player roles in the future.
"All the same am still connected to the game, in any capacity there is, for my local club as a player, I have undertaken some world rugby online courses, and begun children coaching. So in due time, the rugby sports future will take full shape in whatever direction, be it management or consultancy," she said.
"No matter how good you are, if you stay too long, you will spoil it. A good dancer must know when to exit the stage. I have retired from the national stage, not from rugby. I am still available on the local scene. Let me say it's the dynamics," Kelemera added.
Kalemera recently played a vital role in the WXV3 Dubai tournament, where she helped the Lionesses maintain their status by competing against Spain, Kazakhstan, and Colombia.
As a utility prop, playing both as a loose and tight head, Everlyne made significant contributions to the national team.
She expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities she had to wear the great colors of Kenya. Since the reinstatement of the WXV rugby in 2019, Everlyne has been a consistent presence in the team, a testament to her skill, dedication, and unwavering commitment.
Throughout her career, Everlyne experienced many memorable moments. Winning the Elgon Cup during her debut in 2019 stands as a remarkable achievement.
Another highlight was playing the full 80 minutes in the Rugby World Cup repechage qualifiers against Colombia at Nyayo Stadium, where she showcased her endurance and unwavering strength.
The victory in the Rugby Africa Women's Cup Pool B in Uganda holds a special place in her heart.
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Although she fell just short of scoring a try against South Africa, which had been her personal goal, Everlyne’s perseverance and determination shone through.
The Mwamba RFC forward was grateful to her support system for the numerous triumphs on and off the pitch.
"My immediate family for just being there for me and cheering me on, though it didn't come that easy in the beginning, it took time for my hubby to consolidate that out of the blues, his wife now wants to play rugby. The Kenya Rugby Union provided the platform and sought out the playing opportunities and Lionesses' technical staff. Coach Sam Njogu, former Kenya Lionesses S&C, and Former Mwamba Ladies S&C Phillip Wesonga, instilled in me a warrior spirit that I am a star and always pushed me to be best I was meant to be," she averred.
Everlyne’s parting advice to fellow athletes is to establish a stable life outside of rugby.
She encouraged them to pursue their studies, develop a diverse professional profile, and add value to their rugby careers.
