T. NashipaeWho is Andrew Noel Amonde? Top 10 intriguing facts about the KCB Rugby coach
Reading Time: 4min | Fri. 28.07.23. | 20:20
Andrew Amonde, affectionately known as "The Beast," stands as one of Kenya's most formidable flankers in history. His prowess on the field and lethal skills have earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the deadliest players in the nation's rugby heritage.
When it comes to rugby in Kenya, one name that goes unrivaled is that of Andrew Noel Amonde. The exciting flanker who made his debut at the 2006 South Africa 7s has won numerous titles with the Kenya national 7s team Shujaa, and KCB Rugby.
Amonde has attained almost everything there is to be achieved in rugby 7s. He been a key player for both his club and country.
He was appointed Kenya 7s skipper in 2012, a position he held for over 8 years making him the longest-serving Shujaa Captain. The skipper helped Shujaa to qualify for the 2013 Rugby 7s World Cup, leading the team to a fourth-place finish. He was also part of the Kenya 7s squad that took part in the 2018 Commonwealth Games. He played an instrumental role in Kenya's historic 2-16 HSBC World 7s series triumph in Singapore. Kenya defeated Fiji 30-7 to bag their maiden title. He also helped Kenya 7s qualify for their first Olympic Games in 2016.
Amonde announced his retirement from club rugby in July last year, a few weeks after retiring from the national side. He now coaches his club KCB Rugby, with his latest triumph being the Dala 7s title win. The Bankers defeated Kabras RFC 17-5 in the nail biting finals.
While his exploits on the rugby pitch have been celebrated far and wide, there are some lesser-known facets of his life that will captivate you. Mozzart Sport ventured to reveal the untold stories of the indomitable legend who is creating legacies.
He misses the 2016 Singapore 7s
2016 is a year that will remain inked in not only Amonde's heart for years, but also Kenyans.
Amonde was the captain when Kenya went on to win the Singapore 7s after defeating Fiji 30-7 to win the HSBC Singapore 7s on Sunday 17 April 2016 at the Singapore National Stadium. They were then received with pomp and color after their achievement, memories that Amonde treasures.
He loves ugali with wet fried fish
Forget protein shakes and fancy diets. Amonde's power lies in the magic combination of ugali with wet fried fish. The moment Amonde takes a bite of his favorite meal, his opponents tremble in fear. Perhaps, there is a hidden ingredient in that ugali, or maybe it's the fish's aquatic wisdom imparting greatness. Whatever the case, it is evident that the humble dish has created a force to be reckoned with on and off the pitch.
His main hobby is gyming / working out
Amonde understands that in the world of rugby, muscles are the unspoken currency. When he is not creating comprehensive training programs for his charges, Amonde finds joy in lifting weights and pushing his body to its limits. Yes, you read that right.
He loves colour green
Green reigns supreme in the colorful kingdom of Amonde's heart. According to the former skipper, there is something about it that makes him feel alive. To Amonde, green is like a breath of fresh air.
"Whenever I see green, it's as if the world becomes a happier place," Amonde disclosed.
He loves roots and culture reggae music
To Amonde, the combination of reggae and roots transform him into a funky who is ready to jam with the reggae gods themselves. So, if you ever see him bobbing his head in a mesmerizing dance, fear not, its just Amonde getting his reggae-roots groove on.
He loves going out clubbing with his friends
If you ever want a dose of laughter therapy and some epic dance moves, join Amonde and his merry crew on a clubbing night. You will thank me later.
He loves his family
While his skills and talent are important, having a strong family support system plays an important role in success on and off the pitch. Amonde confessed his undying love for his wife and two adorable kids.
He is a staunch believer
According to Amonde, faith is the guiding light that illuminates every essence of his being. As a devout Catholic believer, he finds strength, comfort, and solace in the arms of God. His faith is a beacon of hope.
Rugby was his fourth sport
Unknown to many, rugby was Amonde's fourth sport. The multitalented athlete played soccer, basketball, and handball before finding a home in rugby.
"Rugby was my fourth sport after soccer basketball and handball," he revealed.
He prefers farm life
While others dream of the buzz of city life, Amonde finds himself driven to the serene world of a farm, waking up to the gentle symphony of chirping birds, and chasing mischievous goats. The farm, according to Amonde, offers a sanctuary from the noise of the world, allowing him to watch the sunset paint the horizon in gold and orange.
