In a surprising turn of events, Oscar Dennis, one of Kenya’s most promising rugby 7s talents, announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 29 late last year.
This decision left perhaps many fans, and rugby enthusiasts puzzled, as Dennis seemed to be at the peak of his career. So, what prompted this early retirement?
Before the announcement of his decision to hang his boots the Upcoming Shujaa stars nicked named “Odiero” or White Maasai in the Rugby circles had been a way for two years off the pitch.
He appeared last in November of 2020 in the SX10 World 10s series in Bermuda alongside some of his teammates from Kenya 7s among them Willy Ambaka, Andrew Amonde, Oscar Ouma and the legendary Collins Injera all of whom are retired now.
Upon his return home in Kenya from the Tournament ,a day later during a bike ride In Nairobi’s Karen area. Dennis was involved in a hit and run which badly fractured his right leg.
He was admitted to Karen Hospital by a friend .
He has had to under go 12 surgeries in South Africa for him to get back on his feet again, However not strong enough to get back to the rugby field.
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Odiero almost got his leg amputated twice but doctors believed that would not be necessary as his body was still in fighting spirit.
“It’s fair to say that these past 21 months have been the hardest of my life but also the most rewarding in a weird way…it comes with a heavy heart that I have taken the step to retire from rugby and finally hang the old boots once and for all,”
One year later he now keeps himself busy with his flooring business. He still hopes that one day he will come back in Rugby as a coach and perhaps be able some physically demanding activities.
In the end, Dennis’s early retirement may be a loss to Kenyan rugby, but it also serves as a reminder that athletes are more than their on-field achievements. They are individuals with dreams, aspirations, and concerns for their well-being, both during and after their playing days.
