Quins call on South African expert for Kenya Cup redemption

© Toyota Free State Cheetahs

RUGBY Quins call on South African expert for Kenya Cup redemption

Festus Chuma 18:00 - 16.10.2023

Kenya Harlequin partners with Toyota Free State Cheetahs for technical development, aiming to revive championship glory with Coach Du Plessis."

Kenya Harlequin have turned to South Africa for inspiration, welcoming Coach Henley Du Plessis from the Toyota Free State Cheetahs for a four-week technical partnership. 

This move aims to bolster the team's capacity and provide invaluable knowledge transfer from the current Currie Cup Champions. 

Victor Sudi, Chairman of Kenya Harlequins, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaboration, highlighting the importance of diversifying their technical knowledge to achieve their strategic goals.

"Diversification of our technical knowledge is key to our strategic plan at Quins. We are delighted that our support staff and players will have the opportunity to gain great knowledge from Toyota Free State Cheetahs, who are the current Currie Cup Champions," he said.

The partnership, facilitated by the technical alliance with Toyota Free State Cheetahs, is part of Quins' initiative to enhance their coaching and operational capacities. 

Sudi extended his gratitude to CEO M.J. Smith and Quins members for making this collaboration possible, envisioning a closer working relationship with the South African rugby powerhouse in the future.

Coach Henley Du Plessis of the Toyota Free State Cheetahs emphasized the importance of community engagement and inclusivity in the game of rugby.

 "At Free State Cheetahs, we believe in giving back to the community and assisting in making the game more inclusive for women and children the Cheetah Way. I am proud to be part of a noble cause that will deliver a strong talent pathway for young rugby players in Kenya," the coach said.

Du Plessis also shared the coaching philosophy of the Free State Cheetahs, quoting Bill Walsh, "If we do all the right things to precision, the score will take care of itself." 

Reflecting on Coach Du Plessis' past involvement in Kenyan rugby, it was noted that he had previously coached Kabras Sugar. 

Du Plessis, a seasoned flanker with Boland Kavaliers, had an illustrious playing career, captaining the Boland Cavaliers and earning a spot in the South African 'A' team in 2004.

 His experience brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record to the Kenyan rugby scene.

The four-week collaboration is expected to not only enhance the technical aspects of Kenya Harlequin but also contribute to the broader rugby community in Kenya.

 Quins, the eight-time Kenya Cup champions, are eager to regain the prestigious title, having last secured back-to-back victories in 2010, 2011, and 2012.

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