Kenyan rugby great Andrew Amonde has officially called time on professional rugby.
Making the announcement on his Facebook page on Friday 30 July 2021, Amonde said, “I’ve thought about this on so many occasions but today is the day and I am very grateful that I can do it on my terms.”
“I’m officially retiring from professional rugby. An incredible sport that I’ve played for 15 years which has helped shape me into the person I am today. I can’t thank everyone who has played a part in my journey enough – from my teammates, opponents, coaching and management teams, sponsors and my fans.”
“A special mention to my family and friends who have supported and guided me through my career. Mum and Dad, thank you for letting me spread my wings. My wonderful Queen, Damaquehanie Honor for being my absolute rock throughout all the highs and the many lows. I’m forever grateful for you supporting me to fulfill my dreams while raising our children, words can’t do you justice. “
“I’m very excited about my next chapter in life and what that will look like. For now, i am emotional to walk away from playing but the timing is right and it was an honour to Captain both the Kenya 7s team and Team Kenya for my last milestone at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.”
“Rugby will always be a part of my life so from the bottom of my heart, thank you all.”
Born on 25 December 1983, Amonde started his club rugby at Kisumu RFC 2005 before moving to current club KCB in 2006.
Starting out on the wing and midfield, Amonde, who later moved to the backrow, was first capped for the Kenya fifteens national side, The Simbas, by Michael “Tank” Otieno in 2007 and continued to put in regular appearances for the Simbas whenever he was available for selection.
He would be called up by the late Benjamin Ayimba to the Kenya Sevens national team, Shujaa, in 2008, rising to become captain in 2012 under Mike Friday.
He captained the team to the Wellington Sevens final in 2013, as well as that year’s Rugby World Sevens where they reached a second successive semi final. He also captained the team at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the historic 2016 Singapore Sevens where Kenya won its maiden Sevens World Series cup final as well as the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games.
He retires as Kenya’s second most capped sevens player, having played 358 world series matches, scoring 64 tries.
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