Kenya Sevens co-captain George Ooro believes they have the momentum to maintain their World Sevens Series core status.
His optimism is derived from their second-place finish at the Singapore Sevens earlier this month.
Ooro said they have improved in decision-making and mental fortitude and are relishing the promotion/relegation shootout in Los Angeles on May 3-4.
“The boys are in a good place following the performance in Singapore. We have been building towards that performance. I believe we can carry that form to the final tournament in the USA,” said Ooro.
“The boys’ belief is immense thanks to the coaching team and the fans who have always believed in us, even when we’re not performing well. We need to repay the faith from the fans and the sponsors in Los Angeles.”
Shujaa finished ninth on the log with 36 points, missing out on a top-eight finish despite a heroic finish in Singapore.
They will face fellow World Series strugglers Uruguay, USA, Ireland, and the top four Challenger Sevens sides —Portugal, Germany, Canada and Samoa.
The top four teams will feature in the 2025/26 World Sevens Series, which starts in December. Ooro made the remarks on Wednesday after sponsors Sportpesa handed the team their Sh1.35m bonus.
Reaching the final in Singapore will earn each player and technical bench members Sh75,000. The bonus structure offers Sh100,000 for a win, Sh75,000 for the runner-up, Sh50,000 for third-place finish, Sh32,000 for fourth, Sh20,000 for fifth and Sh15,000 for sixth.
The incentive seeks to motivate the players. Sportpesa CEO and Kasarani Member of Parliament, Ronald Karauri, said, “I would like to thank the team for their performance in Singapore.
You have done the country proud. We are rallying and cheering for you as you prepare to go to Los Angeles in the next couple of weeks.”
The squad resumed training on Tuesday after a one-week break.
