Sports
Ugandan rugby player collapses and dies during training in Nairobi
The club confirmed the heartbreaking news in an emotional statement, paying tribute to a player they described as a beloved brother.
Muhaise, 25, played for Kenyan club Strathmore Leos as a fly-half. (Courtesy photo)
By: Charles Etukuri and agencies, Journalist @New Vision
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The Ugandan and Kenyan rugby community is mourning Hamza Muhaise, a Ugandan international player, who collapsed and died during a training session in Kenya's capital Nairobi on Wednesday, August 12.
Muhaise, 25, played for Kenyan club Strathmore Leos as a fly-half.
The club confirmed the heartbreaking news in an emotional statement, paying tribute to a player they described as a beloved brother.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother Hamza. His loss has left a deep void in our hearts. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the club posted.
Muhaise joined the Leos in January 2024.
He quickly became an integral member of the squad, primarily featuring at fly-half, where he wore the iconic number 10 jersey while directing the team’s attack. His versatility also saw him deployed across the backline whenever needed.
The Ugandan international had previously featured for Black Pirates RFC, before crossing the border to join the Nairobi-based side, where he played a key role in the team’s recent successes.
His latest triumph came on July 11, when he helped Strathmore Leos retain the Ruff n Tuff 7s title at the Ngong Racecourse. The students edged Nondies RFC 15-14 in a thrilling final to successfully defend their crown.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across Kenya and Uganda, with clubs, teammates and supporters remembering him as both an exceptional player and teammate.
He quickly became an integral member of the squad, primarily featuring at fly-half, where he wore the iconic number 10 jersey while directing the team’s attack. His versatility also saw him deployed across the backline whenever needed.
The Ugandan international had previously featured for Black Pirates RFC, before crossing the border to join the Nairobi-based side, where he played a key role in the team’s recent successes.
His latest triumph came on July 11, when he helped Strathmore Leos retain the Ruff n Tuff 7s title at the Ngong Racecourse. The students edged Nondies RFC 15-14 in a thrilling final to successfully defend their crown.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across Kenya and Uganda, with clubs, teammates and supporters remembering him as both an exceptional player and teammate.
In a statement on X, Uganda Rugby said it extends its deepest condolences on the passing of Muhaise, a former Sailors RFC player who later represented Strathmore Leos in Kenya.
“Our thoughts are with Hamza’s family, friends, teammates, coaches, and the wider rugby communities of Sailors Rugby and Strathmore during this difficult time,” the statement said.
Uganda Rugby said that, in honour of Muhaise’s memory, a moment of silence will be observed before kickoff of the U20 Test Match between Uganda and Zimbabwe happening this Saturday at Muteesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku in Kampala.
Former club Black Pirates joined Strathmore Leos in mourning their ex-player.
“Somber mood at the sea. We join Strathmore Leos in mourning one of our former players, Hamza Muhaise. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Sail on, you Pirate,” the Pirates wrote.
Kisumu RFC also sent a heartfelt message of condolence to the bereaved family, and the Strathmore fraternity.
“Our thoughts are with Hamza’s family, friends, teammates, coaches, and the wider rugby communities of Sailors Rugby and Strathmore during this difficult time,” the statement said.
Uganda Rugby said that, in honour of Muhaise’s memory, a moment of silence will be observed before kickoff of the U20 Test Match between Uganda and Zimbabwe happening this Saturday at Muteesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku in Kampala.
Former club Black Pirates joined Strathmore Leos in mourning their ex-player.
“Somber mood at the sea. We join Strathmore Leos in mourning one of our former players, Hamza Muhaise. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Sail on, you Pirate,” the Pirates wrote.
Kisumu RFC also sent a heartfelt message of condolence to the bereaved family, and the Strathmore fraternity.