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Agunda ready to lead Quins into new era

Kenya Harlequin coach Paul Murunga (right) and his assistant Patrice Agunda during the Christie 7s Rugby tournament at RFUEA ground.

Photo credit: Chris Omollo | Nation Media Group

By  Ayumba Ayodi

Correspondent

NMG Sport

What you need to know:

  • In his 17-year playing career with Quins, Agunda claimed several honours, including: Three Kenya Cup titles (2008, 2010, 2012), Three Rugby Super Series titles (2010, 2011, 2012), Enterprise Cup (2009) and National Sevens Circuit title (2012)
  • Agunda also earned a spot on the Kenya Harlequin FC Roll of Honour in 2014 and represented Kenya in both 15s and sevens at all representative levels, including as Vice-Captain of the Under-19 and Under-20 national teams.

For former Kenya Simbas and Kenya Sevens player Patrick Agunda, taking over as head coach of Kenya Harlequin is a deeply nostalgic and symbolic full-circle moment.

Agunda, 35, steps into the top job after serving as deputy coach for five years, three of them under outgoing head coach and former Kenya Sevens tactician Paul “Pau” Murunga.

“There are things you simply can’t describe getting to handle a team that made me what I am. It’s a great honour and I appreciate all the support I have this far,” said Agunda, who also paid tribute to Murunga’s stellar leadership.

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A stalwart of the club, Agunda began his rugby journey at Quins 17 years ago, winning Kenya Cup titles as a player in 2008, 2010, and 2012. Now, he hopes to build on that legacy from the touchline.

“It’s my wish to prepare the team well, putting science in preparations by giving attention to every detail. That will help us undo all the hurdles committed to limit our goals,” said Agunda, emphasizing a detail-oriented approach in his new role.

He also intends to infuse his philosophy and style into the squad: “I will disseminate my style, philosophy and skills for players to buy into it,” he said.

Agunda, who captained Quins for five seasons, first embraced the sport in 2005 while in Form Two at St Mary’s Yala.

It was a schoolmate, former Kenya international Kevin Keegan, who encouraged him to switch from basketball to rugby.

“He was my friend and told me that I could do better in rugby with my good physique and speed,” Agunda recalled.

“After a few lessons, I picked the ball and ran through several players to score in what I can describe as enlightening moments,” he added.

A qualified psychologist and World Rugby Level I and II coach, Agunda has served Quins in various technical capacities, including skills coach and sevens coach, making him a well-rounded and familiar figure within the club's structure.

Kenya Harlequin chairman Victor Sudi praised the appointment.

“A club stalwart and respected leader, Agunda brings fresh energy, strategic insight, and a deep understanding of the team culture.”

Agunda takes over ahead of a demanding calendar, with Quins set to defend their National Sevens Circuit title in 2025, followed by the 2025/2026 Kenya Cup season.

In his 17-year playing career with Quins, Agunda claimed several honours, including: Three Kenya Cup titles (2008, 2010, 2012), Three Rugby Super Series titles (2010, 2011, 2012), Enterprise Cup (2009) and National Sevens Circuit title (2012)

Agunda also earned a spot on the Kenya Harlequin FC Roll of Honour in 2014 and represented Kenya in both 15s and sevens at all representative levels, including as Vice-Captain of the Under-19 and Under-20 national teams.