Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah has sent his condolences to the Kenyan rugby fraternity as they mourn the demise of their national women’s team captain Bernadette Olesia after her tragic death yesterday.
Read Also: Rivers United Veteran Defender Austine Festus Becomes Team Coordinator Role
Olesia who was the captain of the Northern Suburbs Ladies team in addition to working as an office administrator at Shamas Rugby Foundation since 2017 was undergoing treatment for an illness at the Nairobi Women’s Hospital but tragedy struck when the news of her death broke out in the early hours of yesterday.
Statement from Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah on the Passing of Kenya Lionesses Rugby Player Bernadette Olesia as released on the official website ((http://www.RugbyAfrique.com);
“With profound sadness, I learn of the passing of Kenya Lionesses rugby player, Bernadette Olesia. As the President of Rugby Africa. I am deeply saddened by the loss of Bernadette, who made a significant impact on our sport.”
“Bernadette’s leadership as the Captain of the Northern Suburbs Ladies Team was a testament to her unwavering dedication. Her recent contributions to the 2023 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup, coupled with her commitment to the Shamas Rugby Foundation, highlighted her exceptional skills and relentless spirit. Bernadette’s absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt across the rugby community.”
“On behalf of Rugby Africa and myself, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Kenya Rugby Union, Bernadette’s family, friends, and teammates. We offer our unwavering support and sympathy. Let us remember Bernadette not only for her accomplishments but for her kindness, determination, and passion.” the official statement read.
With deepest sympathy,
Herbert Mensah
President of Rugby Africa
At the international level, Olesia was a prominent member of the national women’s team — Lionesses — having featured for the side at May’s Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in Madagascar where Kenya competed against Cameroon, South Africa as well as the hosts.
One of her standout moments in national team colours was at the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in October last year in Uganda where she was named the most valuable player of the Pool A competition.
