Kenyan captain Humphrey Kayange confirmed himself as one the major stars on the IRB Sevens circuit last season, inspirationally leading his side to their best year ever. In October he was also part of the triumphant IRB committee that put the finishing touches on Rugby Seven’s successful Olympic campaign.

Robin Heymann spoke to the rapidly rising star ahead the new IRB Sevens World Series season in Dubai to find out what it was like meeting Jonah Lomu, Olympic funding, his future and who the jesters are in the Kenyan team.

Humphrey, what's been the Kenyan reaction following the news of Olympic inclusion for Sevens in 2016?

My fellow players are very happy and proud to be finally part of the Games. It means a huge amount as the Olympics is the greatest stage any player would want to participate in and thus being given such an opportunity is great s is the prospect of winning a medal. The fans have received the news very well, they will have something else to cheer at when watching the Games.

Will the Olympics give Sevens a boost in funding from the Kenyan Rugby Union?

Being part of the games will first mean an improvement of training facilities and resources and support. Funds will come through especially from the Olympic Committee and also the government for development of the sport. Companies will start supporting the team so I guess it will start.

What was it like spending time with legends like Lomu and Pichot in Copenhagen? Will you keep in touch with them?

It was a great moment for me especially meeting two rugby legends like Lomu and Pichot. They are guys we grew up looking up to and admiring. They are very good guys and both humble. The time we spent working on the project was really good. I most definitely will keep in touch with them and hope to see them again soon. We may be working on some projects so looking forward to seeing them again.

Describe your preparation ahead of the start of the IRB Season?

We have prepared well for Dubai and trained hard. It’s been tough work getting our bodies ready for the brutality and toughness of the season but we know of the work we have ahead of us. It’s a long season so we are taking this body conditioning very serious

Do you agree with your coach that squad players should be rested and kept away from the National Series?

Before the Kenyan National Sevens Circuit has been an important part of our preparations because we get the match conditioning before the start of the series in Dubai. But at the same time some of us have been playing throughout the season so before the start of the World Series the body needs at least need some rest plus conditioning before hitting the pitch. So in a way the coach might be right to keep players out.

What is the realistic prediction and hope for the 2009/10 IRB World Sevens Series?

We have not put the actual goals on the ground but we know as players we have a series win in us. Just going by our successes of last year we need to win at least one leg and also climb up the rankings from number 6 is basically one of our goals.

Who are the new players to look out for from the Kenyan team?

We have some really young, fast and strong lads coming through the team and soon we might get to see guys replacing some old guards. Young guys like Collins Omae, Patrice Agunda need to get the right guidance from the seasoned players like Collins Injera, Dennis Mwanja, Lavin Asego and the rest.

Which sides do you find it toughest to play against and which players from other nations do you respect most?

South Africa, England, NZ, Fiji, and Zimbabwe are some teams that we find very difficult to play against because some of these match us in our speed and others are more technical than us.

I do respect the guys from New Zealand and Fiji though. The way rugby sevens is a tradition in these countries makes me really respect them.

What are your personal playing ambitions for the future?

Right now I am concentrating on the Sevens team and building my profile much more through the sport. Playing overseas is every players dream and working to get fit mentally and physically for that is something I would love to do soon.

Who are funny and entertaining characters in the Kenyan side?

Yeah we have a couple of guys like thar. Ben Nyambu, George ‘jijo’ Mbaye, Lavin Asego, Dennis Mwanja are characters you never get bored with when you hang around them!

What do you do outside Rugby?

Outside rugby I work at Kenya Bureau Of Standards(KEBS) as a Laboratory Analyst so all of my time away from rugby I work there.

What are your interests? Do you follow any other sports?

Yeah for sure I love soccer and I am an ardent fan of Liverpool FC in the Premiership!

How do you like to unwind outside of rugby?

Apart from the occasional drink I like to travel upcountry or to be outdoors and spend time away. I love travelling, listening to music, and reading.

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