Women football players in Kericho County have a reason to smile after football Kenya Federation together with private partners reiterated their support to uplifting the level of the game in the County.
Speaking to Kenya News Agency during the finals of the Ann Too Ladies’ Tournament at Kericho Green Stadium, Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) Director Ann Too revealed the envisaged collaborations .
“We hope to hold tournaments like this every year and attract even more sponsors. Some have already promised to donate sporting gear like shoes, and others have pledged to sponsor teams to participate in international tournaments,” she revealed.
Too highlighted a long-term vision for sustainable support and growth in women’s football, with plans already being mooted to secure both local and international partnerships aimed at elevating the sport and expanding opportunities for female sporting activities across the country.
She added that the initiative would also involve lobbying for sponsorships to support the most promising players, with the goal of nurturing talent and creating more opportunities for women in the sport.
Too further urged more leaders to step forward and support such initiatives at the grassroots level, adding that local empowerment begins with close community engagement.
She emphasized the importance of creating equal opportunities for women in sports and other income-generating activities.
“This tournament has not just been about livelihoods. It has opened up women to new possibilities and revealed their hidden potential. We have had older women, some mothers and farmers who had never kicked a ball or worn sports gear. This has shown them that they too can do it,” she emphasized.
Sidian Bank Senior Management representative George Odero stated the bank’s multifaceted role in supporting sports in Kenya, including sponsoring events, promoting community sports, and partnering with organizations to develop sports infrastructure and talent.
In a heart-stopping final that had fans on the edge of their seats, Kipchebor Starlets and Kapngetuch Queens locked horns in a fierce showdown that ended 1–1 after 90 minutes of relentless action. With neither side willing to give an inch, the match was forced into penalty shootout.
Amid deafening cheers and nail-biting tension, Kipchebor Starlets held their composure, edging out their rivals 5–4 in a thrilling shootout to lift the coveted championship trophy.
The victory not only secured them bragging rights following a gold medal but also earned them a well-deserved top prize of Sh1, 000, 000.
Kapngetuch Queens, who delivered a strong performance throughout the tournament, secured second place and walked away with Sh300, 000.
In an intense third-place playoff, Koibeiyon FC defeated Kapkiam FC 4–0.
Written by Hillary Kemei /Gilbert Mutai KNA KERICHO