What began as a bold experiment four years ago has grown into one of the most inspiring sporting success stories in Bahati Sub-County. The JM Kariuki School Girls Rugby Team has risen through determination, sacrifice, and unwavering support to become the reigning Sub-County Champions, proving that resilience can turn dreams into reality.

‎‎According to the school's Head of Sports Department, Kelvin Mwaura, the team's achievements are the result of years of hard work and commitment. Long after regular school activities ended, the girls could often be found on the training field, pushing through exhausting drills and perfecting their skills.

‎‎"Those countless hours of practice, helped mould a group of disciplined and determined athletes capable of competing at the highest levels," he says.

‎‎He notes that the school's decision to invest in girls' rugby was driven by a desire to create opportunities for young women in a sport that many institutions were reluctant to embrace. While rugby has traditionally been dominated by boys' teams, JM Kariuki School saw potential in its female students and chose to nurture it.

‎‎"The school has consistently provided uniforms, training equipment, rugby balls, and opportunities to participate in competitive tournaments, helping the players develop both on and off the field,” he notes.

‎‎Mwaura highlights the journey was made even more challenging by limited support for girls' rugby during its early years. Mwaura recalls that Rugby 7s had not yet received recognition under the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA), forcing the school to shoulder the full cost of training and competition. Despite the financial burden, the institution remained committed to ensuring the girls had every opportunity to succeed.

‎‎"Behind the trophies and accolades lies a strong support system. Parents played a crucial role by encouraging their daughters to participate in a physically demanding sport and allowing them time to train, often outside normal school hours," he says

‎‎He says the school administration continued to invest in the programme despite financial constraints, while coaches dedicated themselves to nurturing talent. Above all, it was the players' passion and determination that transformed challenges into opportunities.

JM Kariuki Girls Rugby Team during training

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/ MTAA WANGU

‎‎Mwaura notes that the team's growth has been remarkable. In their debut season, the girls reached the regional level but were eliminated by a neighbouring school that eventually advanced to the national championships. Rather than discouraging them, the setback fueled their determination.

‎‎"The following year, the team fought their way through every stage of competition and secured a place at the National Championships. Today, that same hunger for success continues to drive the team as it targets another national appearance and a chance to compete at the East Africa Games," he notes

‎‎Their achievements have extended beyond the rugby pitch. The success of the team has elevated the school's profile and changed perceptions about girls' participation in rugby.

‎‎He notes that several former players have progressed to higher levels of competition, with some earning opportunities to represent Kenya. Their journeys have inspired younger students and demonstrated the life-changing possibilities that sport can offer.

‎‎For Mwaura, the team's story is about more than winning matches. It is about discipline, character development, and opening doors for young women. "The commitment, passion and self-discipline displayed by these girls continue to inspire the school to support them wholeheartedly," he said.

‎‎Looking ahead, JM Kariuki School is determined to build on its achievements. Plans are already in place to continue investing in coaching, equipment, and tournament participation while strengthening partnerships with parents and the wider community. The goal is not only to sustain success but also to ensure more girls have the opportunity to discover and develop their talents.

‎‎As the players continue to chase bigger dreams, their journey serves as a powerful reminder that with support, perseverance, and belief, even the most ambitious goals can become reality.

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The rise and rise of JM Kariuki School Girls Rugby team

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Muthoni Wanjiku