The last scrum: Fallen coach remembered for developing grassroot rugby talents
Former Nakuru RFC(Wanyore) star Felix Oloo Otieno during a past match. Oloo fondly known as "Mwalima" passed on May 4,2026 following a road accident in the United States
A sombre mood hangs over Nakuru RFC as the club comes to terms with the loss of one of its most influential figures, Felix Oloo Otieno, fondly known as “Ade” or “Mwalimu,” following a tragic road accident abroad.
The Level 2 coach was hit by a vehicle while trying to cross the road at Interstate 405 in Bothell, Washington.
Oloo’s journey with Nakuru RFC (Wanyore) was nothing short of remarkable. For 15 years, between 2003 and 2017, he wore the club’s jersey with pride as a dependable flanker, admired for his mobility and supremacy in the lineout.
During his playing days, he was instrumental in guiding Wanyore to multiple titles, including back-to-back Kenya Cup victories in the 2012–13 and 2013–14 seasons, as well as an Enterprise Cup triumph and Bamburi Super Series win.
According to Kenya Rugby Union, which eulogised Oloo in a heartfelt tribute, they note other than being a player, he transitioned into coaching, taking up roles at Nakuru RFC where he handled both the men and women’s teams, focusing on rebuilding structures and nurturing young talent.
His impact extended to the national stage where he served as head coach of both the Kenya Lionesses 7s and 15s teams and later joined Barrhaven Scottish RFC (Canada) coaching staff.
“Under his leadership, the Lionesses achieved qualification for the Tokyo Olympics and competed in major tournaments such as the Africa Women’s competitions, the Dubai 7s Invitational, and the Elgon Cup,” reads part of the post
He is widely credited for building competitive structures despite limited resources.
Known for his calm demeanor and deep belief in grassroots development, Oloo dedicated his life to nurturing young talent.
According to Nakuru RFC, since 2009, he built strong age-grade rugby programs in Nakuru, introducing the sport in schools and mentoring over 400 children. This includes the likes of Kenya 7s star player John Okoth and his brother Philip Okeyo among other players, many of whom have gone on to represent Kenya at the highest level.
His coaching efforts earned him the Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA), Community Hero Coach of the Year award in 2016, cementing his place as one of Kenya’s most influential rugby minds.
As tributes continue to pour in, his family and friends, Nakuru RFC, Kenya Rugby union and the larger rugby fraternity Oloo interacted with, mourns not just a former player and coach, but a mentor, teacher, and visionary leader whose legacy will live on in every player he guided.
He joins fallen heroes that shaped the history of Nakuru RFC including Justin Migiro aka Tyson, Andy Onyuna and Eric Situma who grew the sport in Suguta Valley.
The club notes that further communication on the funeral arrangement will be made in due course.
And as it is said, once a Mnyore always a Mnyore, rest easy Oloo.