NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 12 – The Kenya Rugby Union has announced it has parted ways with Kenya Sevens Technical Director Paul Feeney on mutual consent, owing to what they termed as uncertainty brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Feeney left Kenya in April to be with his family in New Zealand after a brief stint with the team and has not been able to return since due to the restrictions set up by the government barring international flights in and out of the country to stem the tide of the virus.
“It is unfortunate he has been unable to complete the ongoing sevens world series due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The process to fill the vacancy arising from his departure is currently ongoing and interested parties are requested to submit their applications,” a statement from the Union stated.
“The Kenya Rugby Union would like to thank Paul for his work during his time with us and wish him success in the future,” it adds.
Feeney was appointed to the role in September last year after former coach Paul Murunga’s contract ended and led Shuhaa to the 2019 Africa 7s title which earned them qualification to the Tokyo Olympics.
Under his guidance, Kenya’s two teams finished in the podium of the Safari Sevens, the second tier team Morans clinching the title while the main team, Shujaa won bronze.
However, Shujaa’s performance in the World Rugby Sevens series hasn’t been as convincing as they currently sit 12th in the standings with 35 points after six tournaments.