The Embu 7s, the fourth leg of the 2024 National Sevens Circuit which took place over the weekend, delivered a fair share of highlights and challenges as rugby enthusiasts converged at the Njukiiri grounds over the weekend. While Strathmore Leos walked away with the top prize after edging KCB 31-21 in an entertaining final, the event left behind talking points both on and off the field.
Misses
Despite the excitement, the tournament was not without its shortcomings:
1.Single Pitch Limitation
The use of only one pitch meant that teams were forced to share a congested warm-up area. Some sides had to wait for others to finish before they could stretch or prepare, which disrupted pre-match routines and added unnecessary tension.
2.Connectivity Challenges
A poor network connection proved a headache for club media managers and journalists, who struggled to provide timely updates to fans following from home. In an era where real-time communication is crucial for fan engagement, this was a big setback.
3.Pitch Conditions
The state of the playing surface at Njukiiri grounds raised concern after several players sustained injuries. Sand was poured in an attempt to patch up sections of the field, but this only underlined the lack of proper turf preparation. Additionally, Division Two matches were played far from the main pitch, limiting visibility and the fan experience for those teams.
Hits
On the flip side, Embu’s debut as a National Sevens Circuit host carried some major positives:
Taking Rugby to ‘Mashinani’
Hosting the event in Embu was a major win for rugby’s grassroots growth. Taking the game outside traditional rugby strongholds exposes new communities to top-tier rugby and expands the sport’s fan base.
1.Well-Organized After Party
Off the pitch, organizers ensured the crowd had a memorable time. The after party was lively, with great music and entertainment, giving fans a chance to unwind after an action-packed day.
2.Quality Vendors
Food and drinks were both affordable and easily available, with vendors praised for offering pocket-friendly options that catered to different fans.
3.Efficient Tournament
Management
For a first-time host, Embu impressed with how well fixtures were handled. Matches kicked off on time, and the tournament concluded without unnecessary delays, something even seasoned hosts occasionally struggle with.
Conclusion
Overall, Embu 7s had its teething problem, particularly with pitch quality, connectivity, and logistical issues but the positives outweighed the negatives. The enthusiasm from fans, the smooth flow of fixtures, and the bold step of taking rugby to the grassroots point to a promising future if organizers can polish up the rough edges.
Strathmore Leos may have been the champions on the field, but Embu itself proved it can be a worthy venue for top-flight rugby with a little more refinement.
English