Fidel Nyota’s rugby story is one built on resilience, growth and service.
Despite his diminutive stature and young age, Nyota joined the rugby bandwagon around 2010 while still in primary school, training alongside the feared Kakamega School rugby team. He later joined the high school side, winning several KSSSA titles, before turning his focus to giving back through coaching.
Fidel Nyota coaching spark
Nyota began his coaching journey in 2018, taking charge of Chewoyet Boys High School in Kapenguria, West Pokot County.
“In 2018, I coached Chewoyet Boys High School and led them to clinch the West Pokot County KSSSA 7s title for the first time. We also reached the regional quarter-finals,” he recalled.
Eliud Okwemba and Fidel Nyota in a past action. PHOTO/Fidel Nyota
Asked what inspired him to venture into coaching, Nyota said:
“I realized I was a source of inspiration to people my age and younger. Many wanted to emulate me, so I decided to pass on what I had learned. It is yielding, and I am happy.”
Rise with Koyonzo
Nyota later moved to Western Kenya, joining Koyonzo Boys High School, then a little-known rugby side. Serving as backs coach, he helped guide the school to its first Kakamega County 7s title and their maiden qualification to the 15s championships.
In 2019, Koyonzo reached the county finals in both 7s and 15s and qualified for the Western Region Championships for the first time before the COVID-19 pandemic halted school sports.
After the long break, Nyota reunited with Coach Eliud Okwemba, forming a formidable partnership. Under their guidance, Koyonzo rose to national prominence.
A golden 2023
Nyota rejoined Koyonzo in 2023 as a full-time co-coach under Okwemba. It proved to be a historic season as they became, winners of all local open school tournaments, Champions of Kakamega County KSSSA, Western Region champions, National KSSSA 7s champions and FEASSSA 7s champions in Huye, Rwanda.
For a previously little-known and less-resourced school, the FEASSSA crown marked a monumental achievement.
EDITOR’S PICKS:
In 2024, Koyonzo clinched the Kakamega County 15s title but narrowly missed national qualification after losing in the semis. However, in 7s they rebounded, finishing third at county level, winning the Western Region title, and qualifying for the National 7s in Kisii, where they exited at the quarter-final stage.
The breakthrough returned in 2025, as Koyonzo finished national finalists and went on to feature at FEASSSA 7s, placing fourth overall.
“2025 was a successful year. We regrouped after 15s and won the 7s title. It showed our growth,” said Nyota.
Vision and values
Nyota believes his tenure has been successful, driven by his desire to nurture young talent into dependable national and international players.
“Discipline, commitment and hard work are my core values. I aspire to rise beyond high school rugby and contribute to the growth of the game nationally.”
He credits Menengai Oilers head coach Gibson Weru as his local inspiration.
“His resilience and coaching style inspire me greatly,” he said.
Producing top talent
Nyota is proud that several players he mentored now play for top Kenyan clubs such as Kabras RFC, Nondies and KCB RFC.
“The transition rate from school rugby to top league among players I have coached is high, and I thank God for that,” he said.
Fidel Nyota in a past action. PHOTO/Scrummage Africa
A former Western Bulls player, Nyota has since fully embraced coaching. He admits that high school rugby comes with challenges.
“Changes in school leadership can affect support for co-curricular activities. It kills morale and can be discouraging,” he explained.
Yet, his motivation remains strong.
“My best moment is seeing a player grow into a top athlete. My worst is seeing them break down after a loss, it really hurts.”
Fidel Nyota Beyond schools
Nyota recently led Shieywe Lionesses Rugby Club to the BingwaFest Rugby 10s Western Region final, further underlining his growing influence in the game.
