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George Ooro has been named stand-in co-captain alongside Samuel Asati for Kenya's first two legs of the 2024/2025 HSBC SVNS in the absence of Tony Omondi and Vincent Onyala.
Kenya Sevens co-captain George Ooro, affectionately known as 'Japolo' has sent a message of encouragement to his teammates as they gear up for the opening two legs of the 2024/2025 HSBC SVNS World Series.
The campaign begins on 30th November 2024 in Hong Kong, before moving to Cape Town.
Ooro, at just 24 years old, is already among the most experienced members of the squad. Named co-captain alongside Samuel Asati, Ooro steps into a leadership role in the absence of Tony Omondi and Vincent Onyala, both of whom are yet to finalise their contracts.
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09:12 - 05.07.2024
From rejection for being 'too small' to becoming an Olympian - The inspirational story of Kenya Sevens' George Ooro
How George 'Japolo' Ooro went from being rejected for being 'too small' to now being a key part of Shujaa in their quest to achieve Olympic glory.
This marks a significant milestone in Ooro's journey, as it coincides with the two-year anniversary of his debut under then-coach Damian McGrath. His progression has been remarkable, contributing to Kenya’s swift return to core-team status after relegation and playing a pivotal role in the team's qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Reflecting on his selection as captain, Ooro expressed gratitude and outlined his commitment to leading the team effectively:
“It is a privilege to lead this team out for the Dubai and Cape Town legs,” he said during a media briefing.
He also called on his teammates to rise to the occasion, emphasising personal accountability and team unity:
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15:09 - 22.11.2024
Shujaa coach Kevin Wambua clears the air over the futures of experienced co-captains Tony Omondi, Vincent Onyala
Shujaa head coach Kevin Wambua has provided a positive update over the futures of striking co-captains Tony Omondi & Vincent Onyala.
“I usually tell my boys that there is no one who can come in to help you guys. It is upon you to be mature enough and take that task you have been given to represent the nation.”
As Kenya Sevens face tough opposition, including France, South Africa, and Australia, Ooro stressed the importance of taking things step by step:
“Going into Dubai and Cape Town, just trust us and you will see what is happening. It is one game at a time, so the first game will be France, and once we are done with that, the management will give us more KPIs on how to handle South Africa and then Australia.”
Kenya Sevens’ resurgence has been marked by grit and determination, epitomised by their promotion back to core-team status and their victory at the 2024 Safari Sevens.
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13:27 - 21.11.2024
Striking Shujaa stars missing as Wambua exudes confidence in youngsters to deliver in Dubai & Cape Town
Kenya Sevens coach Kevin Wambua is confident his young guns will achieve the desired results in Dubai and Cape Town after some of his big stars were dropped from the squad.
Ooro’s leadership, both on and off the pitch, symbolises a bright future for the team as they embark on their World Series campaign.
Fans will be watching closely, hoping the squad can deliver a strong start in Hong Kong and Cape Town.
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