Kenya Sevens, better known as Shujaa, is gearing up for a triumphant return to the World Sevens Series with an ambitious goal: to finish in the top eight by the season’s end. After spending a year away from the global stage, Shujaa is set to kick off the season in Dubai in just two weeks, with assistant coach Louis Kisia confident of their potential.
“The key this year is to ensure we don’t get into a relegation playoff come the end of the season,” Kisia explained. “Our target is to be in the top eight by the season finale in Los Angeles in May next year.”
Smooth Sailing After Contract Woes
Shujaa’s preparations have been bolstered by the resolution of contract disputes that had threatened to disrupt their comeback. Kisia confirmed that the players have signed two-year contracts, putting the team in a stable position to focus on their performance.
“The contract issues between the union and the players have been sorted,” he said. “The players are back in training, working hard to ensure they are part of the 13-man team traveling to Dubai and Cape Town.”
Shujaa enters the season with an edge over competitors, having already tested their mettle at the Safari Sevens tournament. Kisia believes this gives them a competitive advantage as other teams start the season from scratch.
“We’ve had the benefit of playing a tournament, unlike most of our opponents. I believe we are in a strong position to be competitive,” Kisia remarked.
Sportpesa Boosts Shujaa with Sh84 Million Deal
Shujaa’s ambitions received a significant boost with an enhanced sponsorship deal worth Sh84.1 million from one of Kenya’s top betting sites, Sportpesa. The two-year partnership will see the team receive Sh33 million in the first year and Sh49.5 million in the second.
The funds will cover player salaries, training camps, additional coaching staff, and other expenses critical to the team’s performance. An additional Sh1.6 million has been allocated for next year’s national Sevens circuit.
Sportpesa CEO and Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri applauded Shujaa’s determination and their impressive performance in the Challenger Series, which earned them promotion to the World Sevens Series.
“I wish the team the best as we embark on this journey. We are back where we belong, and I am confident this enhanced new deal will inspire the players to deliver their best performances,” said Karauri.
Shujaa Players Grateful for Continued Support
Shujaa co-captain Samuel Asati expressed gratitude to Sportpesa for their unwavering support during the team’s highs and lows over the past two seasons.
“As players, we are grateful to Sportpesa for standing with us during the Challenger Seven Series. We want to assure them that we will give our best for the upcoming season,” Asati said.
