Felix Oloo: The Coach Who Took Kenya’s Lionesses to the Olympics Dies in US Road Tragedy
Felix “Ade” Oloo Otieno, former head coach of the Kenya Lionesses, died on 4 May 2026 after being struck by a vehicle while crossing Interstate 405 in Bothell, Washington.
Kenya’s rugby community is mourning his death, with tributes from both Nakuru Rugby Football Club and the Kenya Rugby Union. Authorities in the United States have confirmed that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Nakuru RFC expressed deep sorrow at the loss, describing it as a tragedy for the club and the wider rugby fraternity. The Kenya Rugby Union also paid tribute, recognising Oloo as an influential figure in the development of the sport in the country.
Oloo played for Nakuru RFC for more than a decade, from 2003 to 2017. During this time, he was part of teams that won consecutive Kenya Cup titles in the 2012–13 and 2013–14 seasons. He also contributed to victories in the Bamburi Super Series, the Enterprise Cup, and other domestic competitions. His discipline and commitment as a player shaped his later work as a coach.
He went on to coach the Kenya Lionesses in both the sevens and fifteens formats. Under his leadership, the team improved its international performance and qualified for the Tokyo Olympics, a significant milestone for women’s rugby in Kenya. He also led the side in competitions such as the Elgon Cup, the Dubai 7s Invitational, and Africa Women’s tournaments, often working with limited resources.
Oloo was also known for his focus on grassroots development. He supported young players and created opportunities for emerging talent. Colleagues and former players have described him as a mentor dedicated to advancing the sport.
His death is a loss to his family, friends, and Kenyan sport. His contribution to rugby, particularly in the women’s game, remains significant.
