Daddex could be the eldest Resolution Impala Saracens player at Kenya XV. You could expect him to gloat about it, but he’s never spotted even an ounce of opportunity to do this. He operates silently, burning hours in the fitness room and has always managed to balance studies and rugby. He started representing Kenya at the tender age of 17 in 2006 when he played in the CAR U18 tournament in Morocco. 2 years later in 2009, he was representing Kenya at the Junior World Rugby Trophy level in Nairobi and at that time could hold his own against rugby greats who’ve since retired. Resolution Impala Saracens players – Kerre Erick, Simon Muniafu & Samson Onsomu are doing their 2nd year at Kenya XV. Seje Owade & James Kubasu are doing their first. 28 year old Daddex, whose full name is Dennis Mutethia Karani boasts of immense experience playing test rugby.
Which schools did you attend?
I attended Kanyakine Boys Boarding in Meru County, proceeded to Mangu High School then University of Nairobi, Parklands Campus. In 2014 I also attended the Advocates Training Programme at Kenya School of Law.
Did Club Rugby change anything?
I used to play number 8 back in high school, had a stint at the same position then i was promoted to the front row position ;-).
For how long have you been here?
I’ve been at impala for around 8yrs now.
Who could you say welcomed you to the club?
I remember Nick Abok introduced me to the team on my first training session. The players were very supportive and it helped al ot in settling down.
Who is to be blamed for the name ‘Daddex’?
My first training session back in form one, a certain guy called ernest nicknamed me daddy (apparently because i was the biggest form one????) Thereafter in form 3, a classmate called Lloyd had the habit of putting the suffix ‘-ex’ to some of his words. One afternoon in class he called me Daddex and the name has stuck to date.
We’ve seen photos of you donning some unusual jerseys
I played for Quins for two seasons 2011/12 and 2012/13 then i came back home. I also occasionally played for mean machine during the varsity games when i was in campus. I had a stint with Leos during the 2008 Floodies.
Are there decisions you regret making in your rugby life?
We are all prone to making decisions that we end up regretting much later but what matters is how we pick ourselves up by learning that everything serves a purpose and reacting positively to challenges before you.
Are there moments in your rugby career that are indelible?
Playing in the Junior World Rugby Trophy in 2009 is unforgettable plus earning my first cap back in 2011 against Zimbabwe, I had always dreamed of playing for the Kenya 15s.
From number 2 to losing in the Kenya Cup Quarters. What went wrong for Impala this season?
Our line-out was dysfunctional (both attack and defence) we lost a lot of possession at that area plus we wasted many try scoring opportunities. These are areas we need to work on during the 2017/18 pre season period.
Is it true you played alongside Impala greats?
I enjoyed playing alongside Nzioka Muema and Frank Ndong’. They taught me al ot during my ‘youthful days’ at Impala. They helped in moulding me into the player I am today. I hope to help other upcoming front rows the same way they did.
If you retired today, do you expect to get a return-call from the technical bench?
We have very talented front rows at impala and any of them can hold the fort at any given day.The future is bright.
You are a senior player at Kenya XV. Do you think your younger brother could reach this level?
My brother – Kelvins Munene, like any other player has an equal chance of playing at the kenyaXV level. You can achieve anything if you put your mind to it.
Is there a player you can point out as a role model?
My club captain, Duncan Ekasi, his work ethic and dedication to the club despite him raising a young family, juggling school and work. Quite commendable!
Do you think the players’ passports could sport Japanese visas in 2019?
We just need to prepare well and have all rugby stakeholders working towards that goal