Kenyan hockey teams will leave nothing to chance as they seek to defend the titles at this year’s Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSSA) games that begin tomorrow in Kakamega.
The Kenyan boys, who recaptured the title from the Ugandans last year, must be at their best as they battle it out with their neighbours among them two-time champions Kakungulu Memorial who they dethroned last year.
Reigning East Africa champions Musingu High School, last year’s silver medallists St Charles Lwanga, St Anthony’s Boys High School Kitale and debutants Mpesa Foundation Academy will be out to ensure the trophy remains home.
With this year’s contest being played in a round-robin format, there will be no room for mistakes.
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According to experienced coach Kelvin Lugalia, who has led St Anthony’s to multiple East Africa titles, one has to be at their best and remain consistent from the first to the last match because a team gets punished for every point they drop.
“In a round-robin format, every match is a final because the outcome has a permanent impact on the team’s overall performance. Each point counts and so you are punished for dropping any,” Lugalia said.
His sentiments were echoed by Musingu tactician Benson Wabuyabo who said that competing in such a format is tricky.
“It’s tricky and not easy to come with a clear game plan, but we will play a game at a time. Every match will push you closer, or further from the title and that applies to each team. I think whoever will get their first four matches right, will have higher chances of winning the trophy,” Wabuyabo said.
He noted that the biggest concern now is the number of matches and fear of possible player injuries since they have to play many games in a short time.
“Seven matches in seven days will take a toll on the players and as a coach I can only pray that they don’t get injured in the process.”
Musingu, who will be looking to extend their reign to two years in a row, will lead Kenya’s onslaught against the Ugandans. St Anthony’s, who are the most decorated side in the competition, will be out to improve on last year’s performance and restore their lost glory.
They will be looking to end a four-year trophy drought having last won during the 2018 games held in Musanze, Rwanda.
St Charles Lwanga will be hoping to improve on their 2024 silver medal while Mpesa Academy are yearning for an unforgettable debut.
Even so, the Kenyans face a tough task against Ugandan sides that are seeking to halt their reign.
Kakungulu, who are the only Ugandan side to have won the trophy, will lead compatriots and 2024 bronze medallists Ntare High School, Kyadondo Secondary School and Mbarara High School who return to the regional stage after many years in the cold.