Impala RFC winger Derrick Kinyari has opened up on his decision to leave Impala Club and relocate to the United States. There, Kinyari will combine his professional career with his passion for rugby.Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsThe former Moi University speedster moved to the USA after the conclusion of the 2026 National 7s Circuit. ##NAJAVA_MECA_9968880##He secured an opportunity to work as a Special Needs Educator, a career opportunity he said was too significant to turn down.“My decision to leave Impala was purely to pursue my profession. I am a Special Needs Educator, and an opportunity came up for me to work in the USA. There was no way I was going to let that opportunity pass. It was a big step professionally. But I am still an Impala, though,” Kinyari told Mozzart Sport.Darwin Mukidza opens up on reason for joining Menengai OilersKinyari revealed that the move had been in the works since the beginning of the year, which also explains his limited involvement with Impala during the National Sevens Circuit.“It is something I had been working on from the beginning of the year. I think that probably explains why I wasn't as active with Impala during the Sevens circuit. I was already working towards this opportunity, and when it finally came, I took it,” he added.The move represents an important step in Kinyari’s career as he seeks to gain international experience in special education while experiencing life in a new environment.“Professionally, it means a lot to me. It is an opportunity to grow as an educator, gain international experience, and challenge myself in a completely new environment. Rugby-wise, it also means a lot because I now have an opportunity to experience the sport in a developed nation. I am most excited to see the level of competition and, most importantly, the professionalism around the game,” he offered.Mean Machine feted during UoN’s 75th graduation ceremonyKinyari has yet to join a rugby club in the USA, with his immediate focus being on settling into his new job and adapting to his surroundings.“I haven't joined a rugby club yet. My priority has been settling into my new job and adjusting to life here. However, I have already identified several rugby clubs around Minnesota, so I have a few options to choose from,” he explained.While the opportunity has opened a new chapter for him, Kinyari expects the weather to provide one of his biggest challenges.“The weather is definitely going to be the biggest challenge. The winters here are completely different from what I'm used to in Kenya, and it snows for a significant part of the year. So, adjusting to the cold and figuring out how to keep training and playing through winter will definitely be an experience,” he said.The Moi University alumnus, however, believes he is mentally prepared for the transition and is approaching the experience with an open mind.“I think I had prepared myself even before I arrived. I knew this was going to be a completely different environment, so I came here ready to learn, adapt and embrace the experience,” he said.Physically, Kinyari is also working his way back to full fitness after spending some time away from competitive rugby.“I have been out of action for a little while, so I'm getting back into the gym and working on getting a little fitter before I return to the pitch,” he said.Scottish, French sides highlight confirmed teams for Safari7sBeyond work and rugby, Kinyari is keen to immerse himself in American culture, travel and personal development.“Honestly, everything! Everyone wants to experience what life is like in a first-world country, and for me, this is a completely new environment. I want to explore, meet different people, experience different cultures, travel when I can, and make the most of the time I have here. Rugby and work are important, but I also want to grow as a person through the experience,” he said.Despite embarking on a new chapter, Kinyari admitted that leaving Impala was an emotional decision, particularly because of the relationships he built at the club.“I will miss a lot about Impala. Most of all, I will miss the brotherhood and the friendships. I will also miss representing Impala. There is something special about putting on that jersey. And, of course, I will definitely miss the Pavlove!” he said.Kinyari further added that the memories he made at Impala will remain an important part of his rugby journey.“There are many memories I will carry with me, and Impala will always have a special place in my heart,” he said.Kenyan rugby giants to grace international tournament in KampalaLooking five years ahead, the former Moi University player hopes the experience will help him develop on multiple fronts, both professionally and personally.“Five years from now, I would want to look back and see a better Derrick, professionally, personally, and as a rugby player,” he revealed.His long-term ambition is to use the experience and knowledge gained in the USA to contribute to the development of special education in Kenya.“I hope this experience gives me the knowledge, exposure, and skills to make a bigger impact in the field of Special Education, both internationally and when I eventually return to Kenya. I want to use what I learn here to advocate for and contribute to better opportunities for learners with special educational and emotional needs back home,” he said.Harrison Mauve reveals why he left Kabras for Kisumu RFCAnd while his professional journey is now taking centre stage, Kinyari is not closing the door on rugby.“Hopefully, five years from now, I’ll also have a few good rugby stories to tell,” he added.