We believe that competition is a very fundamental part of technical development. It is the center point, where training meets reality and where character is built through immediate pressure. This past weekend, that philosophy was put into action at the Braeburn School grounds as our rugby academy athletes stepped onto the pitch to face the Kenya International and Private Schools (IAPS) Under 13s team.

This fixture has become a regular of our annual calendar, marking the third consecutive year DBA Africa has collaborated to provide a high-level preparation platform for the IAPS squad. For the touring team, this match serves as a vital stepping stone toward the highly anticipated 2026 Rosslyn Cup in the UK. For our DBA athletes, it was an opportunity to measure their grit against some of the finest young players in the country. At the rugby academy we learn through play.

Friendly Fire and Technical Growth

The atmosphere was unique, a blend of intense competition and mutual respect. With several DBA Academy players featuring in the IAPS training squad, the match took on a "friendly fire" dynamic. Coaches from both sides prioritized the educational value of the day, ensuring that while the hits were real, the focus remained on tactical awareness and injury prevention.

The game was played across two distinct formats, four quarters of 7s-a-side followed by two halves of 10s-a-side. Rather than a standard continuous match, the day was structured with regular technical breaks. These intervals allowed coaches to pull players aside, dissecting plays in real-time and adjusting strategies, a "living classroom" environment that accelerated the learning curve for every boy on the field.

Heart Over Size

The physical disparity was immediate. The IAPS side brought significant size and strength to the contact area, using their bulk to bombard the defensive line. However, the DBA team responded with tactical brilliance and collective resilience. Understanding they couldn’t win on size alone, our boys implemented a "two-man tackle" system, consistently swarming ball carriers to neutralize the physical advantage. 

While many of our athletes were experiencing this level of intensity for the first time, individual brilliance still shone through. Alix, one of the smallest players on the pitch, became a standout symbol of the DBA spirit. His fearless tackling, teamwork, and unwavering confidence proved that in rugby, heart often outweighs height. Some of the key life skills we thrive on at the academy.

Building a Community of Athletes

Reflecting on the day, Coach Mercy Migingo, Head of Mission, expressed her pride:

"The team performed exceptionally well. I am so proud of these boys for stepping up against a well-oiled IAPS machine. Seeing our own academy players make the training squad for the UK tour is a testament to the work we are doing across all our programs."

We extend our sincere gratitude to Braeburn School for hosting us and to the IAPS team for the invitation. Together, we are doing more than just coaching rugby, we are building a community of young athletic leaders who carry the life skills of discipline, grit, and teamwork far beyond the final whistle. These are the opportunities we expose our able athletes for sporting opportunities such as scholarships.