Philip Okeyo: From ball boy to Nakuru RFC rugby star

The Nakuru Athletics Club (NAC), famously known as Sunguta Valley, has been a springboard for many remarkable athletes who have made their mark in rugby.

Among these rising stars is Philip Okeyo, a gifted rugby player who has not only excelled with Nakuru RFC but has also represented Kenya on the international stage, including a memorable tour in Zimbabwe.

Philip's journey into rugby began at a young age when he was introduced to the sport by Coach Felix Oloo, a pivotal figure who changed the trajectory of his life.

At the time, Philip was a Class Six student. His teacher, Oloo, encouraged students to play rugby, but initially, Philip did not take up the offer.

However, he soon realized that the opportunity came with an added incentive—a meal, something that was hard to come by at home.

“We used to call him ‘Mwalimu’ because, aside from nurturing our rugby talent, he was also our teacher,” Okeyo recalls. “When I joined rugby in 2014, I was part of the second group that flew to the UK in 2015 for a rugby tour. That experience opened my eyes to the possibilities rugby could offer.”

What followed was a tough journey of staying on top of his game as an age-grade player, constantly striving for discipline and making the most of every opportunity that came his way.

“Traveling to Nairobi to play age-grade games was the highlight of my early school life. During selection, we were always on time and had zero discipline issues. Watching the senior players in action was truly inspiring,” he reflects.

Rugby, he says, has taught him valuable life lessons, especially the importance of discipline and perseverance, no matter the challenges.

Okeyo's hard work paid off when he received a high school scholarship through Top Fry, Nakuru RFC’s official sponsor at the time, and joined Kakamega High School, where he continued to develop his rugby skills.

After completing high school in 2022, he joined Nakuru RFC, where his dedication led to opportunities to represent Kenya on the international stage.

One of his most significant achievements was playing for the national team in Zimbabwe. His aggressive play, tactical intelligence, and determination earned him a spot with the Kenyan national team, including two call-ups for the national 15s side.

“Playing for my country was a dream come true,” Okeyo shares proudly. “Representing Kenya in Zimbabwe, winning the Safari 7s, and competing in Scotland for the Junior World Rugby Championship were incredible experiences. I was honored to wear the national jersey.”

Okeyo acknowledges that his success would not have been possible without the support of his brother, John Okoth, a star player for Menengai Oilers.

“There was a time my mum wanted to move back to our rural home, but I was determined to pursue a rugby career. My brother welcomed me into his home, supported me, and helped me find my footing after school,” Okeyo says, crediting his brother’s support as a crucial turning point in his rugby career.

His unique playing style and tactical acumen did not go unnoticed, earning him a place in the U20 rugby games in 2024.

When asked about his aspirations, he reveals that he dreams of building an impressive career with more international titles.

He also aspires to follow in his brother’s footsteps, whom he considers his first mentor, and looks up to national rugby icons like Oscar Ouma, learning from their experiences as legends of the sport.

Okeyo finds the Nakuru derby especially thrilling. “The chaos of the derby is always intense, but it helps me find my calm and push through the challenges,” he explains.

“Facing my brother John on the pitch is always interesting because I grew up watching him play, and now I’m competing against him. It's a proud moment for us as brothers. I dream of the day we’ll have an Okeyo trio on the pitch, with our younger brother, Joel Mboya, also joining the rugby ranks.”

Currently studying Actuarial Science at Egerton University, Okeyo’s ambition knows no bounds. “The sky is not the limit—my rocket is the ball I carry,” he says.

As he continues to break barriers, Okeyo hopes to serves as an inspiration to aspiring rugby players, proving that with passion, resilience, and the right support, dreams can indeed become a reality.

“I was once a ball boy, watching the big boys play. Now, I’m one of them. To all ball boys, you are the next star this country is yet to discover. Keep pushing, stay obedient, and stay true to the course,” he says.