KRU Championship side South Coast Pirates have strengthened the team’s technical bench and playing unit as they seek qualification for the Kenya Cup in the 2023/24 season.
The Diani-based club has twice faltered at the semis in their bid to qualify for the Kenya Cup, losing in the semis against Mean Machine in the 2021/22 season and Nondies in the 2022/23 season.
Head coach Kevin Amiani said: “We believe this is our time. We have failed twice in the semis but we have picked our lessons and I believe this season, we must get it right.”
“We now have depth in the squad because we have added eight experienced players and beefed up our technical bench,” added Amiani.
Former Kenya Simbas international Brian Nyikuli joins the team as the new forwards coach. He has been working with the club as a consultant.
"It is an honour to work with a bunch of talented players and a dynamic technical bench that is full of energy. I look forward to using my experience and prowess to develop the forwards to be an enigma and a site to watch as we campaign to qualify for Kenya Cup," he told the club’s portal.
Carlos Obukui is the new strength and conditioning coach. The Level One SnC license holder is an alumnus of Kaya Tiwi High School. "It's a great privilege to be given this mandate, I feel happy and looking forward to putting the boys into good shape to compete," he said.
Suleiman Mohamed is the new analyst while Diana Heri joins the team as a nutritionist. Former South Coast Pirates player Robert Magande is the new team manager and Brian Mwenje is the media liaison officer.
The new players include utility back Brighton Omondi and James Ainea TUM Marines.
"I want to thank the Almighty God first. South Coast are a good platform and I am privileged to join them for I know I'll get the necessary exposure and experience," said Omondi
Shimba Hills High School alumni John Asega, 19, has been promoted to the South Coast Pirates senior team.
Hooker Sospeter Rofino joins Pirates from Kenya Harlequins RFC on a five-year contract alongside utility forward Mohamed Hajj.
Fly-half Kelly Akengo has been signed from Kabete Stallions RFC. The club has also acquired Mikey Odhiambo, a lock from Kisumu RFC.
"I am happy to be part of this biggest club in the country and I can't wait to get started. My target is to help Pirates win matches and eventually get promoted to Kenya Cup," said Odhiambo.
Additionally, for the first time in the club's history, the Memorial George Barbour Cup is set to take place under floodlights from October 20 to 22 at Seacrest grounds, Diani.
The purpose of the event is to celebrate the life of the club founder and first chairman George Barbour who passed away on October 3, 2018. The three-day tournament will feature teams from age-grade to senior category.
