Pirates Surf Into Kenya Cup

South Coast Pirates Poised for Glory: A Dream Season Propelled by Passion

Hailing from the sunny shores of Kwale County in the Kenyan coast, the South Coast Pirates are a team unlike any other. After Seven (7) seasons competing in the Kenya Rugby Union Championship, they’ve finally achieved the unthinkable – securing promotion to the prestigious Kenya Cup and a spot in the Championship finals. This remarkable feat has ignited a fire of excitement not just within the team, but across the entire Kwale County community. Raga-Post delves deeper into this remarkable story with Team Head Coach Kevin Amiani, whose infectious enthusiasm reflects the team’s current mood.

Q: Kevin, describe the emotions within the team right now. This must be an incredible feeling!

Kevin: The feeling is beyond explanation,” Kevin exclaimed. “There’s a mix of excitement and pride. The boys and everyone in the community are super excited to have achieved our ultimate goal. It’s a dream come true, to say the least.”

Dominating as Underdogs

Many doubted the Pirates, but they thrived on their journey fueled by a desire to go beyond an “underdog mentality,” as Kevin acknowledges. Q: Did this underdog status play a role in your success?

Kevin: “Yes, the underdog mentality has played a key role,” Kevin acknowledged. “People had written us off, saying we always reach the semi-finals and that’s it. But that fueled our determination to work extra hard all season.”

Beyond the Championship

This accomplishment transcends the realm of trophies and victories. Q: What does this mean for the club and the Kwale community?

Kevin: “Earning a spot in the top tier is a monumental accomplishment,” Kevin beamed, “not just for the club and players, but for the entire Kwale community. It puts Kwale on the map in the rugby world and will inspire generations to come.”

The Pirates are committed to inspiring the next generation of rugby stars. Q: How do you plan to share this passion with young players?

Kevin: “We plan to be good role models and ambassadors of the game,” Kevin declared. “We already participate in clinics and charity exercises with local schools, encouraging young talents to pursue their dreams.”

A Seacrest Showdown and a Cheeky Prediction

The team’s next challenge is a championship clash against the formidable Impala RFC on the 6th of April. Q: How are you approaching this final considering the strength of both teams?

Kevin: “We approach this clash with a lot of respect for our opponent,” Kevin assured, “but also with confidence in our abilities. We’ve played them twice and won both encounters. However, this is a final – anything can happen.”

Playing at their home ground, Seacrest, offers a distinct advantage. Q: How do you manage the pressure of playing in front of your passionate fans?

Kevin: “Playing at Seacrest with our fans behind us is a huge advantage,” Kevin admitted, “but it also brings added pressure. We manage that by focusing on our game plan, trusting our preparation, and channeling the crowd’s energy into positive momentum.”

The Pirates hold a perfect record at their home pitch, Seacrest Grounds Q: What’s the secret to your home dominance, Kevin, is there a secret sauce?

Kevin: “Our unity as a team, the respect we have for our fans, and the familiarity and comfort of playing on our home turf,” he revealed, playfully adding, “While I can’t reveal all our secrets, there is a special pre-game meal at Seacrest that energizes us for victory. But the recipe? That’s a closely guarded secret!”

A Final Note: Buckle Up for a Historic Showdown

Envisioning a victory on home soil, Kevin describes the lifting the Championship trophy on home soil, “An unforgettable experience.”

With a confident smile, Kevin offered a final prediction: “An electrifying final with the Pirates emerging victorious! But of course, anything can happen in rugby. Still, I’ll bank on my boys to carry the day!” Kevin enthused. “We’d celebrate with our fans, share the joy with local supporters and schools, and perhaps even organize a parade!”

 The entire nation is watching, captivated by the South Coast Pirates’ meteoric rise. This team of underdogs has become a symbol of hope, perseverance and  an inspiration in the Kenyan Coast and beyond. As they prepare to take the field for the biggest game of their lives, one thing is certain: the Championship final promises to be a historic occasion, etching the South Coast Pirates’ name forever in Kenyan rugby folklore, and the Pirates are ready to take center stage.