Shamberere Ladies Rugby Football Club, affectionately known as Shamberere ViQueens RFC, has been announced as the third winner from Western Kenya in this month's Tujiamini Silver Awards by SportPesa. This recognition underscores the region's enduring rugby prowess, which has produced numerous outstanding players over the years.
Founded just last September, Shamberere ViQueens RFC has quickly become a hub for talented female athletes wanting to try out Rugby. Based in Kakamega County's Malava sub-county, this dynamic team has already achieved remarkable success in their debut season, finishing second in the Western Conference and securing a semi-final spot in the Women's Kenya Cup.
The team's rapid rise is a testament to the raw talent and dedication of its young players, most of whom are between 18 and 27 years old. Remarkably, many of these athletes have less than two years of rugby experience, showcasing the immense potential for growth and development within the squad.
Shamberere ViQueens RFC stands as a beacon for equality in rugby, being only the second women's team in Western Kenya. The club's formation addresses the historical imbalance between men's and women's rugby in the region, paving the way for more young women to pursue the sport.
The Shamberere National Polytechnic has played a crucial role in the team's success, offering scholarships to players and providing a platform where talent and education go hand in hand. This holistic approach to athlete development sets a promising precedent for future sports initiatives in the county.
Despite their achievements, the team faces significant challenges, including limited training facilities, lack of equipment, and financial constraints. The Tujiamini award aims to address some of these issues, providing much-needed support to help these promising athletes realize their full potential.
As Shamberere Ladies Rugby Football Club celebrates this win, the Tujiamini organization is excited to contribute to their journey. Rugby enthusiasts look forward to seeing these talented young women potentially join the ranks of national team players or even pursue professional rugby careers abroad, further cementing Western Kenya's reputation as a rugby powerhouse.
Congratulations to Shamberere ViQueens RFC on this well-deserved recognition. Their determination, skill, and rapid progress inspire many, and observers are eager to see what they'll achieve in the coming years as they aim to become the best women's rugby team in Kenya.