Ndume 7s: Young Talent, Big Heart

There’s something electric about the Ndume 7s. Maybe it’s the unmistakable roar from the touchlines, the sea of school colours, or the grit and determination etched onto the faces of the players – many pulling on their school jersey for the very first time in a major tournament. Whatever it is, this year’s Ndume 7s didn’t disappoint.

The Banda School were the ones to watch in the U11 category, showing skill, spirit, and teamwork as they battled their way to the final. Their clash against Braeburn Gitanga was a real nail-biter, but Banda held their nerve to lift the U11 trophy in a thrilling 15 – 10 victory. For those watching, it was a showcase of raw talent and grit.

Over in the U13s, the bar was set even higher. Kenton turned heads with their performances, dominating the field with pace and precision. In the final, they fought it out with Peponi House, and secured the well deserved champion position.

But it wasn’t all about the boys’ sides. The Girls’ Touch Rugby tournament added a brilliant layer of energy and inclusivity to the event. Braeburn Garden Estate and Hillcrest led the charge, delivering fast-paced, fiercely competitive matches. In the end, Hillcrest came away with the silverware, but the real win was the passion and positivity radiating from every game.

Alongside the IAPS school’s Trophy tournament, the Mike Aung Cup was competed for amongst grassroots teams including DBA, Shamas and Gilgil Vumbis. These teams are built on the belief that rugby gives children a chance in life by equipping them with skills such as resilience, teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship. The winners of the newly named Mike Aung Trophy were the Gilgil Vumbis, an emotional moment as Mr Aung has been the force behind this grassroots team. The Trophy has been renamed to honour the work and passion Mr Aung has put into creating a network of grassroots rugby teams. 

For Pembroke House, hosting the Ndume 7s is about more than just rugby – it’s about tradition, sportsmanship, and community. The tournament has long been a breeding ground for some of Kenya’s future rugby greats. Ex Kenya Rugby team players come to Pembroke and this year we even had ex England Rugby Captain Dylan Hartley attending the tournament. 

Sponsors included Ndume, Tessen (kit), JW Seagon, Ibis Styles Hotels, Jack Wootton Automotive, Rock & Stones, Garda World, IBN Immigration Services, Morendat Meatery, One Way and Aquamist. We thank each and every one of them for their outstanding support and participation.

As the Ndume 7s Rugby played out, Pembroke’s famous Secondary School’s Fair took place alongside the action. 42 schools attended the Fair, from as far away as Canada, the United Kingdom, South Africa and East Africa. 

As the sun set over Gilgil on Sunday, there was a sense that something special had taken place – a weekend where young players pushed their limits, lifelong friendships were formed, and the spirit of the game shone as brightly as ever.

Congratulations to all the teams, coaches, and supporters who made this year’s Ndume 7s unforgettable. The future of Kenyan rugby is in safe — and determined — hands.