Eric Ogutu: Rising rugby star with a golden kick

Eric Ogutu is rapidly emerging as one of the brightest talents in Kenyan rugby.

A dynamic utility half back for the Menengai Oilers, Ogutu is known for his composure under pressure, tactical intelligence, and precision with the boot.

His growing influence on the field has made him a vital part of the Nakuru-based club’s success in recent seasons.

In an interview with Mtaa Wangu, Ogutu shared that his love for the game began in childhood. “As a class eight student at Bungoma D.E.B. Primary, I would always watch the Bungoma High students play rugby, and that sparked my interest in the game,” he recalls.

That early spark would soon ignite a determined pursuit of rugby excellence.

He notes that he began playing competitively as a Form Two student at St. Paul's Amukura. Mentioning that big break came when he earned a sports scholarship that took him to the rugby powerhouse St. Peter’s Mumias.

“I transferred school following a sports scholarship where my coach then, Mr. Shimenga got me a spot in the St. Peter’s Mumias rugby team. Here we made two East Africa outings, both in 2018 and 2019, where we became runners-up,” he says, adding that it was at St. Peter’s that his raw talent evolved into refined skill, setting the stage for the path ahead.

After high school, he continued his rugby development by training with Kisumu RFC and went on to play for Homeboyz and Catholic Monks. These teams allowed him to sharpen his skills and gain experience at a competitive level.

His breakthrough would come in 2023 when Menengai Oilers scouted him following the end of the 2023 Sevens season. He officially joined Oilers in September that year and quickly made an impact.

April 2025 marked a career-defining month for Ogutu. He played a pivotal role in helping Oilers capture their first-ever Eric Shirley Shield title.

In a tense final against the fierce KCB Rugby Club, Ogutu was the difference, coolly slotting five penalties to seal a 15-12 win, securing Menengai Oilers first ever ESS title.

"It took teamwork and great leadership from our coaches. It was an honour to have been part of the squad that brought the trophy home," he says, thanking his coach for the much support and guidance he has received.

Ogutu had already proven his worth in the semi-final, where he contributed to his team's win with a try conversion and added a penalty to help the Oilers defeat Kabras RFC 25–20.

In the same month, Ogutu made his debut in Kenya Cup and was selected for the Great Rift 10-a-side tournament, where he not only shone but was named Most Valuable Player (MVP). 

His versatility, decision-making, and consistency were evident throughout the tournament and earned him recognition across the rugby scene.

When asked what keeps his rugby chase alive, Ogutu says, “I want to put out my A-game at every match until I get a call-up to the National Sevens team, Shujaa. That would be a dream come true. My teammate Denis Abukuse, who used to be my rival during the Western rugby games, is my all-time role model in the country. I would love to follow in his footsteps.”

From watching high school players in Bungoma to competing in top tier rugby nationally and chasing a call-up to Shujaa, Eric Ogutu's journey is a story of passion and rising ambition. With every game. he hopes it moves closer to his dream and brings along a new wave of inspiration for Kenya’s next generation of rugby stars.

On the other hand, Oilers 10- Aside head coach, Benson Kamau, has high praise for the young back. “Ogutu is our best kicker by miles, a very composed player and someone that the club can rely on,” Kamau says. “He has really come through for the club this season. His growth and impact have been impressive to watch.”