What started as a vision by a passionate student has evolved into one of the most formidable Scrabble clubs in Kenya. The Strathmore University Scrabble Club has grown from overcoming early challenges to carving a name for itself in the competitive Scrabble scene.
Today, with a blend of visionary leadership, dedicated players, and strategic growth, the club has not only achieved remarkable milestones but is also redefining what it means to balance passion with academic excellence.
Twelve years ago, Daniel Machanje, a Doctoral Fellow at the School of Computing and Engineering Sciences, joined Strathmore University for his master’s program at @iLabAfrica and was shocked to find no Scrabble club at the institution. Having previously led Kenyatta University’s Scrabble team to regional championships, Daniel set out to fill this void. “Strathmore, a high-caliber institution, without Scrabble? It was unimaginable,” he recalls.
Rallying like-minded individuals, including Powell Kiplagat, who later became a key figure in Scrabble Kenya, and gaining support from the Dean of Students and their first patron, Coach Tony Ochieng, the SU Scrabble Club was born. What began as a small group of five has now grown to over 100 members, with about 25 consistently active players.
Building a thriving Scrabble culture at Strathmore was not without hurdles. Recruitment was tough as most students prioritized other activities over board games. Additionally, the perception of Scrabble as a mere leisure activity limited its appeal.
The team tackled these obstacles head-on by organizing internal tournaments, hosting national-level competitions, and introducing initiatives that fostered inclusivity. Despite operating with limited resources such as no premium boards or dedicated coaches, their persistence paid off, propelling the club into the national and regional spotlight.
At the heart of the club’s success are standout players like Ryan Omondi and Lancelot Kuria. Ryan recently won a major tournament, solidifying his position as one of the club’s top performers. Reflecting on his preparation, he shared, “I went to the tournament knowing I was going to win. That’s how I approach every tournament. Even if I don’t win, this mindset helps me perform better.”

Ryan Omondi
Ryan’s rigorous training with Premier Division players has sharpened his skills and fueled his dream of seeing Strathmore University dominate the highest levels of Scrabble. “This win is a step closer to my vision of our club leading the Premier Division. In one year, we’ll all be there,” he said confidently.
Balancing academics and competitive Scrabble can be challenging, but Ryan uses Scrabble as a mental refresh. “It keeps me focused and productive with my studies,” he explained.
As the club’s captain, Lancelot Kuria’s leadership has been instrumental in its growth. Kuria’s journey into Scrabble began serendipitously during a lecture on Object-Oriented Programming, where a word puzzle challenge piqued his interest. “I realized Scrabble involves much more than placing letters on a board; it’s a gateway to learning about different topics,” he said.

Lancelot Kuria
Under his captaincy, the club has implemented strategies to maintain high standards, including monthly game nights, internal tournaments, and online competitions with other universities in Kenya. “These initiatives improve our wordplay and prepare us for national championships,” Kuria explained.
Kuria envisions Scrabble as a sport that will place Strathmore University on the regional and national university sports map. “I want more students and staff to participate in our activities. Scrabble can be a powerful tool for both personal growth and community building,” he added.
The club’s success extends beyond the student body. Staff members, thanks to initiatives by Catherine Kibunja, have also embraced Scrabble as part of welfare activities. The club frequently hosts high-turnout tournaments and maintains a strong presence in Strathmore’s sports calendar.
Scrabble’s inclusivity stands out. Unlike mainstream sports, it transcends barriers of gender, age, or physical ability, offering a platform for stress relief and social interaction. “Board games like Scrabble alleviate mental pressures while promoting inclusivity,” Daniel noted.
For players like Ryan and Kuria, Scrabble has imparted valuable life lessons. Ryan emphasized perseverance. “Even when the game seems lost, I remind myself not to accept defeat. This mentality has helped me in other areas of life where persistence and a positive attitude make a huge difference.”
Kuria echoed similar sentiments. “Good things take time. Success in Scrabble, like in life, requires grit and resilience. The ability to take disappointment, turn it into fuel, and keep striving is something I have applied in my entrepreneurial endeavors, particularly in developing Turathi, an edutainment app for Kenyan Scrabblers.”
Both players encourage students to join the Scrabble community. “Scrabble is a great mental break that enhances your mental agility, a skill valuable in academics and beyond,” Ryan advised. Kuria added, “Join the Strabblers, travel with us for tournaments, and forge connections that will last a lifetime. At the end of the day, your grades will be great, but will your connections be as great as your grades?”
With its ever-growing community and unwavering passion, the Strathmore University Scrabble Club stands as a testament to the power of vision, persistence, and teamwork. As its players and leaders continue to dominate boards across Kenya and beyond, the club’s future looks brighter than ever.
Article written by Stephen Wakhu
What’s your story? We’d like to hear it. Contact us via communications@strathmore.edu
ALSO CHECK OUT
See more news-
To My Valentine* 14,Feb,2025
On 14th of February individuals all over the world come together to
-
Bridging Law and Tradition: Unlocking Inheritance Rights* 13,Feb,2025
There is a swahili saying that goes, “Elimu ni taa” meaning, education
-
Two Wheels, One Goal – A Healthier, Happier You!* 07,Feb,2025
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to unwind and stay active is
-
Restoring Faith in Faith-Based Legal Education* 03,Feb,2025
On Thursday, January 30, 2025, Strathmore Law School had the privilege of
-
‘Serving’ the Hospitality and Tourism Industry’s Next Big Ideas!* 31,Jan,2025
In every sense of the word—both in hospitality and tourism innovation and
-
Strathmore Students Poised to Shine at Global Sustainability Competition* 30,Jan,2025
Strathmore University’s innovative spirit is set to take center stage on the
-
Personalised Attention in an Individualistic World* 29,Jan,2025
Welcome to the second installment of our series on demystifying Personalized Attention
-
SESC Hosts Simulation on Climate Debt and Global Justice* 28,Jan,2025
Strathmore University’s Environmental Sustainability Community (SESCans) kicked off the year with a
-
Dr. Purity Ngina: Breaking Silos and Advancing Equality* 28,Jan,2025
Dr. Purity Ngina, the CEO of the National Gender and Equality Commission
-
To The Bar, Set, Ready to Go!* 28,Jan,2025
Michael Kimathi, an astute advocate—in—waiting, has a lot to be grateful for.