Author: News Central

AFC Leopards ex-Chairman Dan Shikanda, Club Patron Alex Muteshi, and U-45 unit branch Chairman Olympia Musonyeafter announcing the 2025 Player Awards Gala and Cultural Week. [Benard Orwongo, Standard] AFC Leopards has named a five-member panel of football experts to spearhead nominations for the club’s Player Awards Gala, set for July 26 at Masinde Muliro Stadium in Bungoma County. The awards, which aim to celebrate standout performers from the season, will feature five categories: Most Valuable Player (MVP), Best Midfielder, Best Defender, Best Goalkeeper, and Fans’ Player of the Year. The nomination committee brings together seasoned voices familiar to Ingwe fans and…

KCB Bank’s Esther Mutinda celebrate during Kenya Cup match against Post Bank at The Gymnasium, Nyayo National stadium on Saturday, July 5, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] KCB Bank yesterday trounced league champions Kenya Pipeline in straight sets to win the Kenya Volleyball Federation inaugural Kenya Cup trophy as curtains fell on the 2024-2025 season at the Kasarani Indoor Arena. Unlike previous games when the oilers showed grit, yesterday’s clash was different as they seemed totally subdued by the bankers who they dethroned last month. KCB will have their setter Esther Mutinda who returned from a break to thank for her brilliance that kept…

Overall winner Shay Chauhan in action at the DHL tournament at Nyali Golf and Country Club course in Mombasa County on Saturday. [Maarufu Mohamed, Standard] 13-year-old Shay stunned an estimated 214 golfers to clinch the overall top spot the DHL Express tournament at the Nyali Golf and Country Club course on Saturday. Playing off handicap 17 Chauhan scored 40 stableford points for victory. “It’s an honour to win today and thanks to everyone who supported me on this journey to get here and always believing in me, even when I doubted myself. This win is for all of us,” said Chauhan. Home…

Highway Secondary school are the football champions of the Nairobi Region Secondary school Term 2 Regional Games 2025 at Nairobi School on Saturday, July 12, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] After weeks and days of drama, uncertainty and tension on and off the pitch, the 2025 regional Term Two games finally ended with the crowning of champions in seven out of the eight regions. Champions, finalists and some lucky semi-finalists booked their tickets to this year’s Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term Two games to be staged in Kakamega from July 28 to August 2. However, the shocking allegations…

Kenya Simbas hooker Eugen Sifuna (center) in action against Zimbabwe in Uganda, on July 13, 2025. [Rugby Afrique] Kenya Simbas on Sunday bowed out of the 2027 Rugby World Cup contention after losing to Zimbabwe 29-23 in a tight Rugby Africa Cup semifinal played at Mandela National Stadium in Uganda. The winner of the semis was bound to play Namibia in the final this coming weekend, a final that would determine who from Africa will join defending champions South Africa at the 2027 Rugby World Cup to be hosted in Australia. However, a second half collapse from the Simbas, who…

St Mary’s Yala winger Ayub Sisia (R) in action against Anjego during the Nyanza Region rugby sevens final at Kisumu Polytechnic on July 11, 2025. [Michael Mute,  Standard] St Mary’s School Yala retained their Nyanza Region Secondary School rugby sevens title after coming from 10-0 down to thrash Anjego 26-15 in an entertaining final played at Kisumu Polytechnic on Friday. Henry Oduor scored a brace, while Innocent Indeche and Ayub Sisia sealed the win for Yala to qualify for the nationals. Yala made the finals after edging out Kisumu County champions Otieno Oyoo High School 7-5 in a tight semi-final.…

Cindy Patience and Cecilia Akinyi (R) of Ng’iya Girls celebrate after winning the Nyanza Region basketball 3×3 girls’ title on July 12,2025. [Washington Onyango, Standard] Ng’iya Girls High School and St Mary’s School Yala are the 2025 Nyanza Region Secondary School basketball 3×3 champions. Yala were crowned the new regional boys’ champions after coming from behind to stun St Joseph Rapogi Boys 18-16 in a tense final played at Kisumu Girls basketball courts on Saturday. The Siaya County champions who were gracing the finals at the regionals for the first time proved every doubter wrong after flooring heavyweights from the…

St Mary’s Yala in action against Gogo during the Nyanza Region volleyball finals played on July 12,2025. [Washington Onyango, Standard] Homa Bay’s Gogo Mixed Secondary School and Nyakongo Girls from Siaya County were crowned Nyanza Region Secondary School volleyball champions on Saturday after winning the finals played at Kisumu Boys courts. Gogo withstood a tough comeback attempt by St Mary’s Yala to win 3-2, claiming the penultimate tie breaker 15-12 to book their spot in Kakamega next month. In the girls’ final which was a Siaya County affair, Nyakongo avenged their defeat at the county level to edge Aluor Girls…

FIFA Referees Committee chairman Pierluigi Collina [FIFA] FIFA Referees Committee chairman Pierluigi Collina has hailed the trio of refereeing innovations debuted at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, declaring that body-worn cameras, an eight-second goalkeeper rule and an upgraded semi-automated offside system “went beyond our expectations.” Speaking to FIFA, the celebrated former Italian referee said feedback on the so-called ref-cam was overwhelmingly positive. “We thought it would be an interesting experience for TV viewers and we’ve received great comments,” he noted, adding that fans immediately asked why the technology could not be used in every match…

Juliana Namutara (C) of KCB strike against Trizah Atuka and Faith Imodia of Kenya Pipeline volleyball club during their Kenya Volleyball Federation playoffs for men and women at Kasarani Gymnasium in Nairobi on October 04, 2023. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Reigning Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Women’s National League champions Kenya Pipeline will today battle it out with KCB Bank in the final of the inaugural Kenya Cup at the Kasarani Indoor Arena. This will be a top-of-the-bill clash as the oilers seek to bag a second major trophy, while the bankers will be looking to redeem themselves after losing the league…

Derrick Ashiundu of Kenya Simbas stretches before a past match. [Rugby AFrique] Derrick Ashiundu has been handed a starting role as Kenya Simbas prepare to battle defending champions Zimbabwe Sables in a high-stakes Rugby Africa Cup semifinal clash today at 4pm at the Mandela National Stadium in Uganda. The Kabras Sugar winger replaces Timothy Omela in the only change made by head coach Jerome Paarwater from the side that defeated Uganda 32-24 in the quarterfinals last weekend. Ashiundu will feature on the right wing, with Griffin Chao, who is currently the joint top try scorer in the tournament with two…

Henry Wanyoike and his guide Peter Njenga win the 10KM race during the first series warm-up races with the theme ‘Together We Run Further’ leading to the 22nd edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi  Marathon to be held on October 26. July 12, 2025.  [Jonah Onyango, Standard ] Celebrated Paralympian Henry Wanyoike cruised to the tape to win the 10km category of the 2025 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon warm-up race held in the Kenyan capital on Saturday. The 10km and 5km warm-up races were used as launch pads for the 22nd edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, set for…

Kenya High’s Abigael Kasyoka and Naomi Ongachi (left) of Dagoretti Mixed during 2025 Nairobi Region Secondary School Term 2 Regional Games at Nairobi School on 11/07/2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Champions Highway Secondary School and Dagoretti Mixed on Friday won their respective semi-final matches to inch closer to retaining their Nairobi Region titles. Highway, who are also the reigning national champions, edged out former holders Upper Hill 2-1 in a nerve-wracking match played at Nairobi School. They will on Saturday clash with Olympic High School in the final. Olympic beat St Patrick’s 1-0 to book their place in the final. The…

St Mary’s Yala and Anjego players in action during their Nyanza Region Secondary School rugby sevens final match at Kisumu Polytechnic on July 11, 2025. [Michael Mute/ Standard] St Mary’s School Yala retained their Nyanza Region Secondary School rugby sevens title after coming from 10-0 down to thrash Anjego 26-15 in an entertaining final played at Kisumu Polytechnic on Friday. Henry Oduor scored a brace, while Innocent Indeche and Ayub Sisia sealed the win for Yala to qualify for the nationals. Yala made the finals after edging out Kisumu County champions Otieno Oyoo High School 7-5 in a tight semi-final.…

St Joseph’s Boys players celebrate after scoring a goal during the 2025 Rift Valley Secondary School Sports Association football match in Eldoret. [Courtesy] Despite their controversial sail to the regional stage, St Joseph’s Boys popularly known as JOBO successfully defended their Rift Valley Secondary School Sports Association football title in Eldoret on Friday. JOBO defeated St Francis Kimuron (Elgeyo Lions) from Elgeyo Marakwet 1-0 in a high-stakes football final played at Hill School Eldoret. Both JOBO and Lions maintained their rhythms, with the Elgeyo Marakwet side disrupting their Kitale rivals with long and high balls. Red-hot Instine Simiyu scored the precious goal…

KCB players in action during their Kenya Volleyball Federation National League finals against Kenya Prisons at Kasarani Gymnasium. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] A showdown is looming at the Kasarani Indoor Arena as the country’s top clubs battle for final spots as the inaugural Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Kenya Cup Tournament enters the penultimate stage today. The last four men and women’s teams will have everything to fight for as curtains fall on the KVF 2024-2025 season. While newly crowned National League champions the General Service Unit (GSU) and Kenya Pipeline will be hoping to win a second trophy, Kenya Prisons sides…

Paris Saint-Germain’s Spanish headcoach Luis Enrique gestures during a press conference at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 11, 2025, ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final football match between England’s Chelsea and France’s Paris Saint-Germain. [AFP] Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique on Friday urged his team to round off the best season in the club’s history by winning the Club World Cup, but warned not to expect Sunday’s final against Chelsea to be a “simple formality”. “This is absolutely not going to be a simple formality,” the Spanish coach insisted, refusing to accept…

Liban Kenai Ali controls the ball in a past action. [Courtesy] At 19 years old, Liban Kenai Ali aspires to play for the national team, Harambee Stars, aiming to bring pride to his country and carry on a family legacy that runs through his veins. Sports run in his family’s blood, as his grandfather, Haroub Shemte, played for Zanzibar, and his aunt, Thara Ali, plays for Oman’s women’s football team. Kenya’s top swimmer, Haniel Kudwoli, is also his cousin. Kudwoli is known for breaking the national boys’ 50m breaststroke record of 29.45 seconds, which Jason Dunford had previously set. Born…

LOC chairman Nicholas Musonye inspects Nyayo Stadium on July 05, 2025, ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) that kicks off on August 2, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Kenya is ready to welcome Africa for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), this is according to Nicholas Musonye, the head of the Local Organising Committee (LOC). Speaking to journalists at the Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, Musonye confirmed that all preparations are complete and the country is more than prepared to co-host the tournament involving local-based players with neighbours Uganda and Tanzania. Musonye revealed that officials from the Confederation of…

KDF’s Victor Odhiambo (left) and Hassan Wanende of Busia County in a past action. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] After missing the first leg of the National Boxing League that was held in Busia, defending champions Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and Kenya Prisons will honour the second in Mombasa next week (July 17-19). Their absence made league leaders Kenya Police trample over other teams with ease in the fight for top honours. And their presence must have sent the policemen to the drawing board, as the two teams are determined to close the gap between them and the league leaders in the…

Canada’s Marco Arop and Kenya’s Emmanuel Wanyonyi cross the finish line in the men’s 800m final of the athletics event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. [AFP] Seven of the eight finalists from the men’s 800m at the Paris Olympic Games will clash again at the Herculis EBS Meeting, providing what looks set to be one of the highlights of the Diamond League meeting in Monaco today. It’s one of eight disciplines in Monaco in which the Olympic champion is set to compete. The men’s 200m, meanwhile, boasts two Olympic gold medallists in the form of Noah Lyles and Letsile…

Kesogon Secondary school volleyball payers in past action at Kisii School. [Sammy Omingo, Standard] There was no room for mistake as teams sailed to the semi-finals of the Rift Valley Secondary School Sports Association games in Eldoret. West Pokot’s Nasokol Girls and Trinity from Nakuru are among teams that triumphed in the quarter finals of girls’ football contest. Nasokol beat Baringo’s Mogotio 4-1 in the quarter finals showdown played on day two at Hill School. The Rift Valley matches were momentarily disrupted and delayed due to heavy rainfall in Eldoret, but that did not dampen the spirit of the regional contests. Nasokol dominated the…

Kenya Police FC head coach Etienne Ndayiragije in past action at Kenyatta Stadium in Nairobi on February 15, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Kenya Police head coach Etienne Ndayiragije has been named the June SJAK/Betika Coach of the Month, following his historic feat of guiding the law enforcement side to their first-ever FKF Premier League title. Ndayiragije, who was unanimously voted by the selection panel, becomes the second foreign tactician to win the award this year after South African Carlos Kyatwa, who handles Kabras Sugar RFC, racked up the coveted title in April. For winning the award, the Burundian walked away…

2025 Limuru Open winner John Lejirma at Limuru Country Club, July 6, 2025. [Mose Sammy, Standard] The best of Kenya amateur golf was on display as the 76th edition of the Limuru Open ended at the little Augusta, Limuru Country Club layout last Sunday. As attested by the handicap limit of 6.1, for the 154 elite amateurs who took to the course for the 54-hole challenge as they battled for a share of the Shs 500,000 prize fund courtesy of NCBA, Brakenhurst Hotels and  Mit Vidda Homes. Despite the biting cold, which saw play being suspended for two hours to…

Daniel Nduva during The 56th edition of the Magical Kenya Open at Muthaiga Golf Club on Thursday, Feb20, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenya Golf Union (KGU) has announced the launch of the Kenya Swing Tournaments, which kick off next weekend in Nairobi. The three-event series will commence with the 12th edition of Kabete Open, which was postponed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Defending champion Adel Balala claimed the tournament’s hat-trick last year, having won it back-to-back in 2021 and 2022, and again in 2024.  Hungry for the bragging rights and a share of the prizes, the field will be limited to 156 players with…

South Africa’s double Olympic champion Caster Semenya looks on as she sits for the start of her hearing at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg, eastern France, on May 15, 2024. [AFP] A top European court ruled Thursday that the Swiss judiciary did not give double Olympic champion Caster Semenya a fair trial when she contested a rule forcing her to lower her testosterone levels to be able to compete as a woman. However, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), in its final decision, said it could not determine whether or not the South African runner…

A dejected Arsenal midfielder Bukayo Saka (right) and Brentford’s Christian Norgaard after a Premier League match at Brentford Community Stadium on Friday. [File, Reuters] Christian Norgaard said a childhood dream of appearing in the Champions League had come true after signing for Arsenal from Brentford on Thursday. The 31-year-old Danish midfielder has joined for a reported initial £10 million ($14 million) fee plus a further £2 million in add-ons, according to The Athletic. Norgaard scored 13 times in 196 appearances for the Bees and was crucial to establishing Brentford as a Premier League club over the past four seasons. “You…

Sports CS Salim Mvurya receives a ball from Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) press conference in preparation for the event at Stadion Hotel Kasarani on July 10, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has dismissed criticism surrounding his squad selection for the upcoming 2024 CHAN tournament, saying Kenya is not just showing up to participate but to make a mark. The delayed continental showpiece is set to kick off on August 2, 2025.  Speaking during a media briefing at Kasarani Stadium on Thursday, July 10, McCarthy stood by…

Harambee Stars’ Captain Michael Olunga playing against Gabon in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at The Nyayo National stadium, March 23, 2025. Gabon won 2-1. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, has made steady progress in the latest FIFA world rankings, rising two places to position 109 globally in the update released today. The rise comes on the back of a solid run of form during the recent international window, where the Stars played two friendly matches against Chad in Morocco. The results, 0-0 draw including a 2-1 victory in the second match, have earned…

St Mary’s Yala football players line up before their opening match of the 2025 Nyanza Region Secondary School games at Moi Stadium on July 10,2025. [Michael Mute, Standard] St Mary’s School Yala kicked off the Nyanza Region Secondary Term two games on the front foot on Thursday after seeing off Agai High School 2-0 in Group B’s high stakes football match played at Moi Stadium. The Siaya County champions are eying a maiden appearance at the nationals set for Kakamega next month and needed to win before facing Gekendo and Rapogi in their final matches. Herman Ochieng and Javan Omondi struck…

Students and fans support their teams with flags as the 2025 Nyanza Region games kicked off in Kisumu on July 10,2025. [Michael Mute, Standard] Newly crowned Kisumu County rugby champions Otieno Oyoo High School kicked off their pursuit for a maiden Nyanza Region Secondary School rugby sevens title campaign with a 34-5 win over Nyambaria. Otieno Oyoo dethroned giants Maseno School at the county to be crowned champions after stunning the defending champs 19-5 three weeks ago. Speaking after the match, Otieno Oyoo, Principal Boaz Adit, who formally guided Koyonzo Secondary School to East African success, said he is building…

Maseno School (L) in action against Kanyawanga during the basketball 3×3 championship at the Nyanza Region games played at Kisumu Boys on July 10, 2025. [Michael Mute, Standard] Siaya County basketball 3×3 champions Sawagongo and Ng’iya Girls both picked wins on day one to set off their title push as Nyanza Secondary School term two games kicked off at Kisumu Boys and Kisumu Girls on today. Sawagongo humbled Nyabisasa 21-9 while Ng’iya Girls schooled Sironga 21-3. St Mary’s Yala, on the other hand, also joined the winners with a 21-1 win over Mwongoro. “It’s a game at a time for…

Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric reacts at the end of the FIFA Club World Cup match against Paris Saint-Germain at the MetLife stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on July 9, 2025. [AFP] The curtain finally fell on Real Madrid midfield maestro Luka Modric’s superlative career at the club after a drubbing by Paris Saint-Germain in New Jersey, but in years to come that will be forgotten. The 39-year-old made his last appearance for the club as a substitute in the 4-0 Club World Cup semi-final defeat on Wednesday, but leaves a host of indelible memories from his time with…

Former Liverpool and England midfielder Jordan Henderson. [Courtesy] Former Liverpool and England midfielder Jordan Henderson is leaving Dutch giants Ajax one year before his contract was due to expire, the club announced on Thursday. The 35-year-old joined Amsterdam-based Ajax in a blaze of glory in January 2024, only six months after his move from Liverpool to Saudi Arabia sparked controversy over gay rights. An outspoken advocate for the gay community, his transfer to Saudi club Al-Ettifaq had prompted accusations he was putting money above principles. But he quickly put that controversy behind him, as Ajax appointed him club captain and…

Cosmas Bett on his way to victory in a past Maasai Mara Ultra Marathon. [Courtesy] Cosmas Bett will be out for a sixth consecutive victory at the 2025 Maasai Mara Ultra Marathon set for November 15 in the northern region of the various scenic Maasai Mara conservancies. Dubbed the ‘UltraMaraThon’, the enduring 50km showpiece, whose registration was launched in Nairobi on Wednesday night, will traverse three conservancies within the Maasai Mara region: Mara North, Lemek, and Ol Choro. “I’m already prepping up for the showdown, I’m fit, I’m working on speed and endurance to complete the package,” Bett, 28, told…

Kenya Simbas winger Griffins Chao (center) in action against Uganda during the ongoing Rugby World Cup qualifiers in Kampala. [Courtesy, NileSpecial] Kenya will face Zimbabwe in the semi-finals this coming Sunday. Kenya Simbas lock Andycole Omollo believes the team has what it takes to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, despite falling short in the past. Omollo, who was named Man of the Match in Kenya’s 32-24 win over Uganda on Tuesday, said teamwork and determination will carry them through the 2024 Rugby Africa Cup. “First, I have to thank God for the pleasure of being here. It has…

Seven-time Ligue 1 champions Lyon will remain in Ligue 1 next season after winning their appeal against relegation, the French Football Federation (FFF) said on Wednesday. In June, Lyon were relegated to the second-tier Ligue 2 by French football’s financial watchdog having been under budgetary restrictions from the body since November. Published Date: 2025-07-09 17:11:46 Author: Source: The Standard

Abigail Opicho (left) of Sirakaru Secondary School in action on June 23, 2025. [Washington Onyango, Standard] Bungoma County basketball girls’ champions Sirakaru Salvation Army Secondary School are upbeat ahead of the 2025 Western Region Secondary School games set to kick off at St Peter’s Mumias Boys High School in Mumias, Kakamega County. After winning the 3×3 title twice at the county level, Sirakaru, led by forward Abigail Opicho, believe it is time to challenge heavyweights Butere Girls for the regional gong. Speaking to the Standard Sports, Opicho, who started playing basketball in 2023 when her school coach, Wycliffe Baraza, introduced…

Sawagongo basketball captain Chan Aweng (left) in action against Laiser Hill during the KSSSA National finals in Shanzu on April 10, 2025. [Washington Onyango, Standard] Siaya County basketball heavyweights Sawagongo High School are confident ahead of the Nyanza Region Secondary School games finals set to kick off on Thursday at Kisumu Boys, Kisumu Girls and Moi Stadium. Christine Awuor who has been with the team for many years said they are targeting to repeat their Term One feat when they stunned giants Agoro Sare from Homa Bay to win the boys’ basketball. Awuor said the same players that helped them…

Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner waves at the Albert Park Circuit ahead of the Formula One Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 21, 2024. [AFP] Christian Horner is to leave his role as Red Bull team principal with immediate effect after 20 years, the Formula One team announced on Wednesday. The 51-year-old Englishman oversaw a period of dominance by the team with eight world titles won the drivers’ championship eight times, with Max Verstappen winning the past four titles, and six constructors crowns. However, his fortunes have dipped in the past 18 months after being accused of…

Chelsea’s head coach Enzo Maresca celebrates after winning the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 semifinal football match between Brazil’s Fluminense at the MetLife stadium on July 8, 2025. [AFP] Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca hailed Joao Pedro and expressed his delight at reaching the Club World Cup final after the new signing’s double strike secured a 2-0 win over Fluminense in the last four on Tuesday. “We are very happy and very proud to be in the final on Sunday because this is the first edition of the Club World Cup and the best clubs in the world are here,” said…

Namwela Boys volleyball team in action against Cheptil in last year’s national games. [Sammy Omingo, Standard] Rift Valley Secondary Schools Sports Association Term Two games are promising an adrenaline-packed action. Sports giants are from today converging in Eldoret for major showdowns. From volleyball giants, national volleyball champions Cheptil Secondary school, to football kings and queens making comebacks to the Rift Valley regional stage and to surprise teams, the stage has been set for thrillers. Cheptil’s principal and team manager Kipyego Ngetich said their boys are ready for the showdown. “We are confident of winning the Rift Valley regional trophy in…

 Dagoretti Mixed High School and Beth Mugo Secondary School players in past action. [File, Standard] Nairobi Region girls’ football champions Dagoretti Mixed Secondary School will be on a mission to retain their title at this year’s regional Term Two games that begin today at Nairobi School. Dagoretti has dominated the Nairobi games since dethroning Olympic High School in 2019. They are determined to be among the eight girls’ teams that will compete for top honours at the 2025 Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term Two games set for July 28 to August 2 in Kakamega County. Dagoretti coach…

Benson Murkomen won 42km Nairobi City Marathon at Uhuru Park on July 6, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] With his face glowing with pride, Antonio Bundi relished the thrilling moment of crossing the finish line during the fourth edition of Nairobi City Marathon that took place on Sunday in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital. The 22-year-old, a native of a serene village in northern Kenya, braved the chilly dawn weather to race along the 27.1 km Chinese-built Nairobi Expressway, competing against both local and international long-distance runners.  Bundi knew his chances of winning the 21-km half marathon were slim, but the thought of running alongside well-known athletes of long-distance…

Chama Volleyball team captain Kenneth Ndegwa Muthoni during a past training session. [Courtesy]  Men’s Division Two side Chema Volleyball Club will go full throttle in their final push for promotion to the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Men’s National League. Two sides from the lower tier will be promoted to the National League this weekend. Chema are currently third on the standings with 22 points and must win their remaining matches to enhance their chances of joining the big boys’ next season. They have three points less than top of the table Beast who they also play at the weekend. Chema…

Beatrice Chebet (left) the first woman to run 5000m under 14minutes and Faith Kipyegon the three-time Olympic 1500m champion when they were hosted by Sports CS Salim Mvurya at his office in Nairobi, on July 8, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] New world record holder Beatrice Chebet believes Kenya’s 5000m team has what it takes to win all the medals at the Tokyo World Championships in September. The double Olympic champion who spoke at Talanta Plaza on Tuesday and also at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Monday night said her main focus now was the World Championships. “A World Championship…

Kenya Simbas winger Griffins Chao (center) in action against Uganda during the ongoing Rugby World Cup qualifiers in Kampala,Uganda. [Courtesy, NileSpecial] Kenya Simbas survived a late Ugandan pressure to qualify for the 2024 Rugby Africa Cup semifinals after knocking out the Rugby Cranes 32-24 in an entertaining quarterfinal match played today at the Mandela National Stadium in Uganda. After leading by 19 points with 15 minutes left on the clock, the hosts scored two late tries in an attempt to sting the Simbas who showed class and calm in disaster to hold off the comeback attempt and win. Griffin Chao…

An attendee holds a portrait of late football player Andre Silva during the funeral ceremony of Liverpool’s Portuguese forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva at the Mother Church of Gondomar, on the outskirts of Porto, on July 5, 2025.  (Photo by FILIPE AMORIM / AFP) Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota was likely speeding when his car veered off a motorway in Spain last week killing him and his brother, Spanish police said on Tuesday. The shock deaths of Jota, 28, and Andre Silva, 25, on July 3 plunged the football world into mourning, less than two weeks…

Uganda captain Ivan Magomu (centre) in action against Kenya Simbas in Kisumu, on November 11, 2023. [Uganda Rugby Union] For the past decade, Kenya Simbas have come close but heartbreaks in the finals have left them watching the Rugby World Cup from home. In 2014, the Simbas’ dream ended with a 27-10 loss to Zimbabwe, denying them a place in the 2015 World Cup in England. Three years ago, Kenya fell short once again after losing to Namibia in the Rugby Africa Cup final and thus missing the ticket to the 2023 tournament that was won by South Africa Springboks.…

Aminata Semassekou of Kenya Ports Authority in action against Equity Hawks during their Kenya Basketball Federation match at Nyayo National Stadium Basketball Court, Nairobi, on March 1, 2025. [File, Standard] Reigning Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) men’s Premier League champions Nairobi City Thunder cemented their top spot after ending the regular season on an unbeaten run. Thunder played their last match at the weekend thrashing Eldonets Platinum 81-43 to bag the maximum 44 points from their 22 outings. They maintained their flawless run having won last season’s title without losing a match. Thunder, who made history by becoming the first Kenyan…

Two fans receiving autographed Cristiano Ronaldo jerseys while posing with the footballer’s brother Hugo dos Santos Aveiro (C) during the opening of the CR7 LIFE Museum in Hong Kong on July 7, 2025. [AFP] Hong Kong football fans queued for hours on Monday to snap pictures of Cristiano Ronaldo’s trophies and jerseys at an exhibition billed as the first of its kind outside the superstar’s native Portugal. Visitors at the opening of the “CR7 LIFE Museum Hong Kong” at a luxury shopping mall posed next to life-sized statues of the former Manchester United and Real Madrid player, including one in…

Athletes compete along Nairobi Expressway during the Nairobi City Marathon. [File, Standard]  Benson Tunyo Murkomen and Emily Chepkemoi are the winners of the fourth edition of the Nairobi City Marathon (NCM) held in the Kenyan capital on Sunday. Murkomen braved the overcast weather, clocking 2:08:36 to lift the men’s cutthroat showpiece as determined Justus Limo (2:08:42) and Albert Kangogo (2:09:06), who breathed heavily on his neck, finished in that order. Likewise, Chepkemoi waded through the chilly morning, ending the tape in 2:25:45 to become the new women’s winner, edging out Vivian Jerotich (2:26:31) and Lucy Chelele (2:26:35) who completed the…

From left: Lunar Magero, Tony Nyambogo, Joyce Osike and BS Patel during the April Mug of the Month played at Nyanza Golf Club, on April 26, 2025. [Washington Onyango, Standard] BS Patel rolled back the years to clinch top honours at the July Mug of the Month Golf Tournament held at the Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu. He emerged the overall winner after carding an impressive 64 nett score. The seasoned golfer, who has spent decades on the fairways, was thrilled with the victory, saying; “After so many years, it feels great to finally return to the podium. I’ve waited…

The new look refurbished Kasarani Stadium ahead of the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) that kicks off from August 2nd to 30, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] In a bid to make the movement within East African region flawless, Kenya will grant visa-free entry to media, fans, and other football lovers intending to watch the delayed 2024 African Nations Championship (Chan) and 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). While their co-hosts Uganda have also made a similar arrangement, Tanzania are expected to make the announcement in the coming few weeks. Kenya’s Harambee Stars, who will be making their debut in the continental…

Kenyan athletics stars Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet. President William Ruto has commended Kenyan athletics stars Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet following their record-breaking performances at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, on Saturday, July 5. Kipyegon, 31, delivered a spectacular run in the women’s 1,500 metres, setting a new world record of 3 minutes, 48.68 seconds. The three-time Olympic champion eclipsed her previous record of 3:49.04 set last July, reaffirming her place as one of the greatest middle-distance runners in history. Beatrice Chebet also made history in the women’s 5,000 metres, becoming the first woman to run under 14…

Faith Kipyegon of Kenya reacts after winning the Women’s 1500m and sets a new world record during the Prefontaine Classic at Hayward Field on July 5, 2025 in Eugene, Oregon. [AFP] Beatrice Chebet shattered the women’s 5,000m world record Saturday with a groundbreaking time of 13min 58.06sec as fellow Kenyan Faith Kipyegon lowered her own 1,500m global record at the Diamond League athletics meeting in Eugene, Oregon. Chebet, Olympic gold medallist at 5,000 and 10,000m in Paris last year, delivered a devastating finish to become the first woman to break the 14-minute barrier in the 5,000. The 25-year-old said she…

KCB vs Kenya Prisons during their Kenya Volleyball Federation National League finals at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on June 07, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] There were no surprises on Saturday as Kenya’s top women’s clubs dominated their opponents to advance to the semi-finals of the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) inaugural Kenya Cup at Nyayo Gymnasium. Former League champions KCB Bank, Kenya Prisons, and National Women’s League silver medallists the Directorate of Criminal Investigations won their respective quarter-final matches to secure their last four slots. They joined newly crowned league champions Kenya Pipeline, who got a bye. The quartet will represent Kenya in the 2026 Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB) Zone Five Club Championship…

Athletes in action during the second edition of Nairobi City Marathon at Nyayo National Stadium in 2023. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] It’s all systems go as the fourth edition of Nairobi City Marathon (NCM) gets underway in the Kenyan capital this morning. Over 16,000 participants from 75 countries will be out to hunt for glory in various categories that the race, set to start and finish at Uhuru Park, is offering. In the men’s 42km showdown, USA-based world beater Edward Cheserek and two-time Paris Marathon champion Paul Lonyangata will be out to dislodge defending champion Eliud Magut from the crown. Likewise,…

Zetech Sparks’ Deborah Obunga (left) and Billha Akinyi of ANU Panthers in a past match. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Strathmore University Blades intensified their hunt for a play-offs slot with a 70-55 win against National Bank of Kenya (NBK) Phoenix in a Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Men’s Premier League match played at Nyayo Gymnasium. Blades victory condemned the Phoenixes to the bottom of the table, pushing them closer to relegation. NBK Phoenix, who made their Premier League debut this season, risk returning to the lower tier. Despite having a good start that saw them register impressive results, including a victory against…

St Anthony’s Secondary School versus Serani Boys in past action. [File, Standard] Serani Secondary School held its nerve to edge out Tononoka Secondary School 5-3 in post-match penalties to recapture the title they had lost last year as Coast Region Term Two games ended yesterday in Mpeketoni, Lamu. It was sweet revenge for Serani, who had suffered at the hands of their neighbors, Tononoka, who snatched their county as well as regional title last year. Serani had also lost the Mombasa County final to Tononoka in penalties. Just like the county final, the two sides had played to a 1-1…

Kenya’s Njoroge Kibugu in past action at Muthaiga Golf Club. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] A change of wind was witnessed as Muthaiga’s Njoroge Kibugu came from behind to force a tie with day leader Daniel Nduva of Nyali in the ongoing Professional Golfers of Kenya (PGK) Equator Tour golf tournament at the par 73 Ruiru Sports Club course on Friday. Kibugu, who was sitting tied fourth with Junaid Manji on a 4-under-par 69 gross on the first day, came blazing in the second round, forcing a tie with day one leader Daniel Nduva on 11-under-par 135 gross each to share the…

Nicholas Kimeli wins the 10000M Men final race ahead of Kibiwott Kandie during the Trials for World Athletics Championship held at Nyayo National stadium in Nairobi on July 07, 2023.[Stafford Ondego, Standard] The Eugene Diamond League set for tonight is not an ordinary meet for Kenyan athletics stars. The country’s top athletes are competing in what is expected to be a major showdown in the Diamond League circuit.  Kenya is using the meet to select the men’s 10000m and the women’s 5000m squad for Tokyo. Athletics observers say the 50th edition of the Prefontaine Classic, set to be staged at…

Kaya Tiwi (in white) from coast in action against Olympic from Nairobi during the girls basket ball finals during the National Secondary school games at Nakuru High school on September 12,2022. [FILE/Standard] Kaya Tiwi Secondary School from Kwale County on Friday retained the Coast Region girls’ basketball 3X3 title after beating Kilifi’s St John’s Kaloleni 15-3 in a final of regional Term Two games that end today in Mpeketoni, Lamu County. However, Kaya Tiwi boys were unlucky as they fell 21-14 to Malindi High School in the boys’ final. All finalists qualified for the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term…

Kisumu Day players celebrate after their win over Muhoroni High during the Kisumu County Secondary School games played on June 19, 2025 at Moi Stadium. [Washington Onyango,Standard] Kisumu Day are the 2025 Kisumu County Secondary School football boys’ champions. Commonly referred to as Yudhee, Kisumu Day retained their title after narrowly seeing off Agai High School 1-0 in the delayed county finals played on Friday at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo. Bavon Omondi rounded the Agai defence before slotting the ball between the legs of the goalkeeper to help Kisumu Day retain the title and complete a double over their…

Kenya U13 national team players celebrate their victory against Nigeria during the NFL Flag Continental Youth Championship in Cairo, Egypt. [KFAF] Barely a few years after its introduction in Kenya, it is now evident that American Football or the National Football League (NFL) is gradually gaining popularity in the country. The game is spreading like wildfire in most Kenyan schools and colleges, where the regular NFL was introduced in 2012 as NFL Flag (non-contact), followed in 2018, with Kenyan primary schools embracing the latter in 2023. The popularity of NFL Flag in the country was loudly pronounced at the just-concluded…

Strathmore University’s Blades’ Cliftone Alela (left) and Pascal Juma during KBF Premier League Play-off at The Nyayo Gymnasium on Saturday Jan 22, 2022. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Stiff battles are expected this weekend in the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) leagues as the current top eight clubs seek to remain in the play-offs zone, while those at the bottom fight relegation. With the regular season nearing its end and teams facing the reality of not making it to the playoffs or even being relegated, they have everything to play for in their remaining matches. Reigning Men’s Premier League champions Nairobi City Thunder…

Ghana’s midfielder #05 Thomas Partey gives a press conference at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC) in Doha on December 1, 2022, on the eve of the Qatar 2022 World Cup football match between Ghana and Uruguay. [AFP] Former Arsenal footballer Thomas Partey was on Friday charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault after complaints by three women, UK police said. The charges against the 32-year-old Ghana international relate to alleged offences that took place between 2021 and 2022, the Metropolitan Police force said in a statement. They “follow an investigation by detectives, which commenced…

Kisumu Day players celebrate after their win over Kasagam during the Kisumu County Secondary School games played on June 18, 2025 at Moi Stadium. [Washington Onyango, Standard] Kisumu Day High School and Agai High School are through to the finals of the 2025 Nyanza Region Secondary School Term Two games set to be played next week. Kisumu Day qualified for the regionals after knocking out nemesis Kisumu Boys 2-1 in a rescheduled Kisumu County Secondary School football boys’ semifinal played on Friday at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo. The reigning county champions used their second-time lucky charm to edge their…

Amos Cheruiyot of Nandi Bears Golf Club attempts a putt during the First Assurance Golf Day at Nyanza Golf Club on May 10, 2025. [Washington Onyango,Standard] Veteran golfer Mukuria Ragui and guest player Elias Kariuki were the stars of the show during the Club Night golf tournament held on Thursday at Karen Country Club. The event, which attracted over 240 players, was part of the buildup to the highly anticipated Karen Golf Mug scheduled for Saturday. Sponsored by First Assurance and Absa Life, the competition brought together golfers from different age categories and divisions, with winners earning bragging rights ahead of the weekend’s main event. Ragui, competing…

KDF men’s volleyball team coach Elisha Aliwa follows action against GSU during their Kenya Volleyball Federation match at Nyayo National Stadium Basketball Court on March 01, 2025. GSU won 3-0. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] After failing to make it past the quarter-finals of the 2024-2025 Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Men’s National League contest, the Kenya Defence Forces are seeking to redeem themselves in the Kenya Cup. The soldiers are among eight teams that will be battling for semi-final slots on Sunday at the Nyayo Gymnasium. KDF coach Elisha Aliwa is optimistic that his charges will finally get it right and book…

Kenya Para volleyball team players pose for a group photo ahead of the Africa Championship at Kasarani Indoor Arena on July 03, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Kenya’s para volleyball coaches are planning to introduce a new, faster playing style aimed at catching opponents off guard in the Africa Para Volleyball Championship, set to serve off at Kasarani Gymnasium on Friday. The tournament will end on July 10. Head coach Julius Ouma explained that the team has shifted from the traditional four-two formation, which used two setters and four attackers, to a one-five system with one setter and five attackers to…

Harambee Stars fans cheer their team during a match against Gabon at Nyayo National stadium, March 23, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Harambee Stars are getting ready to make history as they prepare to play in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) for the first time. The tournament, which starts on August 2, will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Kenya qualified automatically as one of the three host nations. This will be the country’s debut in the CHAN tournament, a competition reserved for players who play in their local leagues. It is a big opportunity for local talents to shine…

Kisumu Day football players during a past match on May 31, 2025. [Washington Onyango, Standard] Kisumu Day will renew their rivalry with Kisumu Boys on Friday as the delayed Kisumu County Secondary School football boys’ matches finally get underway after a two-week holdup. The match, which will be staged at Moi Stadium from 8am, will run concurrently with Agai High School playing Kasagam in the second semifinal at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo. “After a long wait, we are here finally. The match was to be played on Thursday but was moved due to a pending court case involving Kisumu…

Professional gamers in action when BLAZE by Safaricom launched an e-sports tournament in partnership with Pro Series Gaming (PSG) and Standard Group, at the Safaricom centre, Nairobi [Elvis Ogina.Standard] The Kenya Phygital team is ready to fly the national flag high at the “Phygital Contenders: Abu Dhabi – Football” tournament, set to take place from July 25 to 29 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). This will be Kenya’s debut in a global Phygital football event, and the team is eager to make a strong impression. Phygital is a new sport that mixes traditional physical football with virtual…

Harambee Stars midfielder Alpha Onyango (C) in action against Chad. [Harambee Stars,X] Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has included three new players in the national team squad ahead of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which will be hosted in East Africa for the first time. The trio of Keith Imbali from Shabana FC, and Ulinzi Stars pair Yakeen Muteheli and Staphod Odhiambo have been called up for the first time. These fresh faces have impressed in the FKF Premier League and will now have a chance to represent Kenya on the continental stage. Midfielder Imbali has been one…

Marathoner Eliud Magut crosses the finishing tape in a past race. [AFP] Eliud Magut and Cynthia Jerotich Limo are expected to defend the men and women’s titles at the fourth edition of the Nairobi City Marathon (NCM) set for Uhuru Park in the Kenyan capital on Sunday. Magut will ward off stiff challenge from the likes of Lisbon, Shanghai and Paris marathons winner Paul Lonyangata in the expected cutthroat men’s category. Likewise, Limo will face strong opposition from continental beaters Sandarfelis Chebet Tuei and Philomena Cheyech in the women’s marathon that has also attracted other similar Africa and global forces.…

Liverpool’s striker Diogo Jota celebrates scoring a goal during a past English Premier League football match. [AFP] Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota and his brother died in a car crash in northwestern Spain on Thursday, police said, weeks after the star got married. The Civil Guard said a vehicle veered off a motorway and burst into flames shortly after midnight in the municipality of Cernadilla in the province of Zamora, confirming the deaths of Jota, 28, and his brother Andre. “Everything points to the blowout of a tyre while it (the vehicle) was overtaking,” the Civil Guard said in…

UNICEF unveils university network to boost child rightsInstitutions pledged to integrate behavioural sciences in aid and development programmes. Published Date: 2025-07-03 11:21:04 Author: Source: The Star

Kenya Prisons coach Josp Barasa reacts against KCB Bank during their Kenya Volleyball Federation KVF Finals and Playoffs at Kasarani Gymnasium in Nairobi on June 08, 2024. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] After a dull 2024-2025 that saw them finish with no trophy or medal, former Kenya Volleyball Federation Women’s National League champions Kenya Prisons have one more chance to redeem themselves. This is according to head coach Josp Barasa who believes that the inaugural Kenya Cup presents an opportunity to win a trophy. Barasa said that they have everything to fight in the contest having finished a distant fourth in the…

Mwinyi Hamadai of Tononoka and James Mwamburi of Mwavumbo in action during Coast Region School games at Shimo La Tewa School in Mombasa, on September 2, 2022.[File, Standard]  As several counties grapple with endless grievances and appeals, the case is different in the Coast Region as county champions and lucky finalists begin their quest for tickets to this year’s Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term One games. The games begin Thursday at different venues in Mpeketoni, Lamu County. At stake are bragging rights as well as a place at the national games set for July 28 to August…

St Joseph’s Boys (and St Anthony Boys players in action during their Trans Nzoia County semi-final match at Chebisaas Boys High School in Eldoret on July 2, 2025. [Stephen Rutto, Standard] St Joseph’s Boys Kitale on Wednesday night sailed into the Rift Valley Secondary Schools Sports Association regional games after a dramatic final staged at Chebisaas Boys High School in Uasin Gishu. Jobo (St Joseph’s Boys) defeated Bwake Boys 1-0 in a chaotic final of the controversial Trans Nzoia County football matches. The match was played in Eldoret (Uasin Gishu County) after days of chaos, confusion and protests in Trans Nzoia.…

Benard Murunga after being sworn in as Sports Disputes Tribunal chairperson at the Supreme Court building on Monday, June 30, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Nairobi advocate Benard Murunga is determined to leave a lasting legacy at the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT). This is after he was sworn in as the new SDT chairperson, taking over from the immediate former chairperson, John Ohaga, whose term elapsed. In a ceremony at the Supreme Court building presided over by the Deputy Chief Registrar of Judiciary Paul Ndemo, on Monday, Murunga promised to continue the legacy of the 11-year tribunal by ensuring access to justice was…

Gor Mahia’s head Coach Zedekiah Otieno ‘Zico’ during FKF Premier League match against Tusker FC at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos County. Jan 19, 2025. [Jonah Onyango Standard] Record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia have parted ways with their entire technical bench following a disappointing 2024/25 season, which ended without a trophy for the first time in nine years. The decision, announced through an official club statement signed by Chairman Ambrose Rachier, comes just days after Gor Mahia lost the FKF Cup final 2-1 to Nairobi United. “Gor Mahia Football Club wishes to inform its supporters, stakeholders, and the general public that…

St Anthony’s Secondary School versus Serani Boys in past action. [File, Standard] Former Coast Region boys football champions Serani Secondary School are yearning to secure a return to the national games. They are looking to be among the eight teams that will battle for glory at this year’s Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term Two games set for July 28 to August 2 in Kakamega. Having missed last year’s national showpiece after being eliminated in the semis by their neighbours Tononoka Secondary School, they are now determined to recapture their regional gong and bag the region’s lone ticket…

Action between Kesogon Secondary School and Loima Girls. [File, Standard] Chase for Rift Valley Regional tickets commences this morning when Nakuru County Secondary Schools Term Two Games get underway at Koelel High School in Gilgil.  Most of the top giants in different disciplines have made it to the county games after their sub-county games ended last week. And the same giants are equally determined to get to the regional championships, a move that could make the event more competitive as small schools aim to slay the hitherto kings and queens in the three-day competition that ends on Friday. Former Rift…

Kenya Sevens star Jone Kubu in action against Spain at Hong Kong Sevens. [World Rugby] Fijian-born international Jone Kubu of Kabras Sugar will make his long-awaited return to the national team next week in Uganda after being named in the traveling 28-man Kenya Simbas squad set to feature in the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifiers set for Kampala. Kubu, who won his fifth Kenya Cup title with Kabras Sugar earlier this year, returns to the squad alongside Thomas Okeyo, Samuel Asati, and John Okoth. Simbas head coach Jerome Paarwater said the team is ready to dance with the big boys,…

KCB’s Hugh Misiko (left) and Chol Mach Nhial shake hands after a Kenya National Chess League match in Kisumu County on May 18, 2025. [Washington Onyango, Standard] Eight-time champions KCB Chess Club are stamping their authority on the 2024/2025 Kenya Chess Premier League, remaining unbeaten after nine rounds and sitting comfortably at the top of the league table with 25 points. The bankers, guided by experienced Candidate Master and head coach Benjamin Magana, continued their dominant form over the weekend. They delivered a resounding 4.5-0.5 win over Nairobi Chess Academy before battling to a tightly contested 2.5-2.5 draw against perennial…

Butere Girls football team players during the 2023 Western Regional Secondary Schools Ball Games finals at Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard] Butere Girls High School will renew their fierce football rivalry with Madira Girls when the Western Region Secondary School Term Two games kick off next week from July 9 to 12 at St. Peter’s Mumias Boys High School in Mumias, Kakamega County. The national champions, Butere Girls, are fresh from defending their Kakamega County title after edging out Archbishop Njenga Girls 2-1 in a thrilling final. With their eyes now firmly set on reclaiming the regional crown, Butere…

Kenya Rugby Union, ChildFund Rugby, and Menzies Aviation officials pose for a group photo in Nairobi on July 1, 2025. [KRU Media]   Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has unveiled its new grassroots initiative, Pass It Back, an innovative programme designed to combine non-contact rugby with essential life skills training for young people aged 11 to 16 years. The partnership jointly spearheaded by KRU, ChildFund Rugby, and Menzies Aviation brings in sponsorship worth over Sh11,634,300 (USD 90,000) that will be spread out within the next two years. Kenya now joins a growing global network of countries using rugby as a tool to…

Amira Sailors Hockey team during Kenya Hockey Premier League Women match against Blazers at Dasmesh Stadium, Sikh Union Club, on June 8, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Reigning Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) women’s Premier League champions Blazers Hockey Club remained at the summit of the table as the first leg of the 2025 season ended at the weekend. However, former men’s champions Butali Warriors failed to dislodge United States International University of Africa (USIU-A) Mashujaa from the men’s Premier League top spot after losing 1-2 to holders Western Jaguar. Victory for Warriors against Jaguars would have seen them top the table…

From left: The Kenyan team of Joss Craig, Will Millar, Geoff Morley and Charlie Morley pose for a group photo after their 10-6 triumph against Zimbabwe to win the Calvary Cup in Harare, on June 15, 2025. [Courtesy] As national selectors get ready to pick a team to face Zambia in a 10-Goal-International-match at Manyatta Polo Club in Gilgil next month, several players earned their handicap promotion in the chase for top honours. The players were honoured when the curtains came down on three-day Calvary Cup that was snatched away by Off-Beat Safaris at Manyatta Polo Club over the weekend. Among…

Gor Mahia fans cheer players in their match against Ulinzi Stars in FKF Premier League match at Ulinzi Sports Complex, on June 15, 2025. [Jonah Onyango,Standard] Nairobi United, also known as Naibois, completed a fairy-tale season on Sunday after stunning giants Gor Mahia 2-1 in the FKF Cup final at Ulinzi Sports Complex. The win was not only historic but also confirmed the rise of a new football powerhouse in Kenya. Frank Ouya gave United the perfect start with an amazing acrobatic finish in the first half, sending their fans into wild celebrations. Gor Mahia, the record FKF Cup winners,…

Kisumu Day players celebrate after their win over Muhoroni High during the Kisumu County Secondary School games played on June 19, 2025 at Moi Stadium.[Washington Onyango,Standard] The 2025 Kisumu County Secondary School football games have taken a dramatic turn after Onjiko Boys High School was handed a three-year ban from the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) competitions for fielding ineligible players during this year’s games. The verdict, issued by the County Director of Education’s office, followed investigations conducted between June 21 and June 24, confirming that Onjiko breached the KSSSA constitution. Onjiko, who had edged out defending champions Kisumu…

 Lydia Celestine gets herself out of the banker during the Riley Falcon Swing Off at Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu on June 28, 2025. [Washington Onyango,Standard]   Dave Karia emerged the overall winner of the Riley Falcon Swing Off golf tournament held at Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu on Saturday. Karia carded an impressive 41 stableford points to beat a strong field in the event that attracted top golfers from across the region. The men’s category was tightly contested, with Albert Ojoniyo also posting 41 points to win the men’s winner prize, while Vitalis Asewe came in as men’s runner-up with…

The 98th Coronation Trophy winner John Lejirma tees off on the par-five 18th-hole during the final round of the tournament at Nakuru Golf Club, June 1, 2025. [Mose Sammy, Standard] The Nakuru Golf Club, known for its excellence in golf, hosted the sixth edition of the Tee-Off with Crown Paints series, which was graced by a strong field of 168 golfers. Duncan Kibue emerged as the overall winner, posting 41 stableford points while playing off handicap 28. In Division One, Ross Rooney, playing off a handicap of 28, shot a round total of 38 stableford points to lead the division. In Division…

Former Kenyan international Boniface Ambani is the new AFC Leopards Chairman, following club elections held at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, Nairobi, on June 29, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] From winning the last Premier League title for AFC Leopards to being elected the club’s chairman, Boniface Ambani knows he has his work cut out. The former Kenyan international who was in the Ingwe squad that clinched the title in 1998, on Sunday garnered 1101 votes against Enos Mutoka (647) to succeed Dan Shikanda. For over two decades, 27 years to be exact, the club has been flirting to deceive season…

Shujaa hurdle before a match at Dubai Sevens on Dec 3, 2024. [Courtesy, Kenya Sevens] Harriet Achieng Okatch made history as the first woman to lead the Kenya Rugby Union after being appointed the chairperson earlier this month. Her rise to the top seat comes at a time of great uncertainty and division in the sport. Achieng replaced Sasha Mutai, who stepped down on May 30 after a heated fallout with the board. Now, Achieng says her job is to heal, unite, and build a stronger, more transparent future for Kenyan rugby. Achieng claims that Mutai’s resignation came as a shock to many. But from…

Gor Mahia fans cheer players during a past match at Ulinzi Sports Complex on Sunday 15, 2025. [Jonah Onyango,Standard] The battle for the sole ticket to play in the CAF Confederations Cup will be settled today when Gor Mahia face Nairobi United in the FKF Cup final at Ulinzi Sports Complex from 3pm. The match promises excitement and tension, with both teams having everything to play for — a national trophy and a place in continental football next season. Nairobi United, the surprise package of this year’s tournament, are chasing history. Nicholas Muyoti’s side has already earned promotion to the…

Kenya Police’s Benson Wahongo (left) and Barnabas Odhiambo of Butali Warriors during Premier League match at City Park Hockey Stadium on March 26, 2022. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Former Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) Men’s Premier League champions Butali Warriors bounced back from their disappointing last outing to beat Wazalendo Hockey Club 3-2 in a match played yesterday at Dashamesh Stadium. Warriors, who went into the match on the back of a humbling 1-6 defeat to United States International University of Africa (USIU-A) Mashujaa, did not take any chances, taking a 3-0 halftime advantage. They put up a spirited fight in the second half, protecting…

Former AFC Leopards and Harambee Stars forward Boniface Ambani [Courtesy] Former AFC Leopards and Harambee Stars forward Boniface Ambani has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the club’s upcoming elections, unveiling an ambitious blueprint aimed at restoring the club’s former dominance in Kenyan and African football. Speaking at a colourful manifesto launch held at the KCB Simba Auditorium in Upper Hill on Thursday, Ambani introduced his reform agenda dubbed #IPOSIKU, a Swahili phrase loosely translating to “the day has come.” The launch comes just three days before Leopards head to the polls to elect new officials. Backed by…