SCHOOLS: Ng'iya Girls seek Nyanza Region basketball 3x3 title

Tracy Sally of Ng'iya Girls (L) warms up with a smile ahead of the Siaya County finals.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

The battle for national slots is set to ignite fierce competition as Nyanza Region Secondary School Term Two games begin today at Kisii School and Cardinal Otunga Mosocho High School, in Kisii County.

The event will see schools vie for a chance to represent the region at the national finals, which will also be in Kisii next month.

Ng'iya Girls in action against Barchando during the Siaya County finals.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

In basketball 3x3, Ng’iya Girls will be keen to return to the nationals this year. They will take on Asumbi and Oyugi Ogango in Group C.

Last year, Ng’iya finished as runner-up after losing to national champions Ototo Mixed Secondary School.

Ng’iya coach Naftali Ambala is confident that his team can clinch the regional title this year.

“Our focus has been on building a resilient and agile team. We have learned from last year’s experience and are determined to go back to nationals as the top-ranked team from Nyanza. The girls have shown tremendous improvement and are ready to give their best,” Ambala stated.

Nyakach Girls center Esther Achieng and left attacker Veroline Agola attempt to block a shot during Kisumu County volleyball final against Koru Girls.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

In Girls' volleyball, heavyweights Nyakach Girls will begin their title chase against Kameji.

This match promises to be a thriller, as Nyakach Girls have been the team to beat in the regional competitions over the past years. Nyakembene will play against Ikonge in the other match.

For boys' volleyball, new Kisumu County champions Nyabondo will start their campaign with a match against Etono, while Siaya County champions Chianda take on Nyabisia.

Onjiko High School (R) in action against Nyabondo during the Kisumu County volleyball finals.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Defending regional champions Onjiko High School will begin their games tomorrow against Sagegi. Onjiko’s coach, Alphonse Mtere, remains optimistic despite the team losing the county title to Nyabondo.

“Our team is still strong despite the setback at the county level. We have analysed our previous matches and worked on our weaknesses. The boys are motivated, and we are looking forward to showcasing our strength at the regional level,” said Mtere.

He added that the team has been focusing on enhancing their teamwork and communication on the court, which he believes will be crucial for their success at the regionals.