Beyond the Try Line: Exploring the heart of rugby at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology
By Beckon Wafula, Student SIIS
Rugby as a game may have its cradle in Rugby, Warwickshire, England in the mid 1840s but today, at JOOUST, rugby isn't just a sport; it's a way of life. Captain Dohald Omondi and his assistant, Shitote Ezra, both embody the spirit of determination and camaraderie that typifies the university's rugby team’s indefatigable spirit. Leading from the front, Captain Omondi's strategic prowess on the field and Shitote's unwavering support have become the driving force behind the team's success.
As the university participates in the Nationwide Rugby League, the Jaramogi Warriors showcase their tenacity against formidable opponents. The league becomes a stage where the team's skills are put to test, and the dedication to the sport becomes more than just a game. Each match is a testament to the hours of training, teamwork, and the unyielding spirit spelt by the mantra ‘if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you’ which defines JOOUST’s rugby culture.
Beyond the try line, the university's rugby program extends its impact into the community. Through outreach initiatives and rugby clinics, BONDO COMMUNITY RUGBY, the players connect with aspiring athletes, fostering a love for the game and imparting valuable life skills. JOOUST rugby team doesn't just play for themselves; they play to inspire the next generation of rugby enthusiasts and community.
The rugby field becomes a canvas where friendships are forged, challenges are collectively faced head-on, and victories are celebrated with gusto and relish. The team's unity transcends the boundaries of the pitch, creating a tight-knit community within the university. Their collective passion for rugby becomes a source of pride for Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology fraternity.
Behind the scenes, the coaching staff, led by the soft spoken coach, Zachariah Rono, plays a pivotal role in nurturing every budding talent and instilling discipline as one of rugby’s core values. With a keen focus on player development, Coach Rono ensures that the values of sportsmanship and resilience are tightly woven into the fabric of JOOUST rugby program.
In essence, "Beyond the Try Line" encapsulates not just the athletic prowess of the JOOUST Warriors, but also the heart and soul of rugby at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology. It is a story of passion, perseverance, and the enduring legacy of a team that goes beyond the boundaries and like Albert Einstein quipped, “life is like riding a bicycle, to keep your balance, you must keep moving.”
