Pangani Girls determined to challenge giants at national games

Pangani Girls' Hockey goalkeeper Lavender Wendo trains ahead of the KSSSA national Term One games. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

In the world of sports, there’s something captivating about the underdog narrative - the tale of a team defying the odds, pushing against the tide, and challenging the established giants.

This year, at the Kenyan Secondary School Sports Association (KSSSA) national Term One Games, Pangani Girls High School emerged as one such underdog, ready to carve its own path to glory amidst the towering competition.

With their eyes set on the prize and hearts filled with determination, Pangani Girls’ hockey team stands poised to take on the challenge at Machakos High School.

As the Nairobi Region champions, Pangani carry the weight of expectations into the tournament, but they do so with a firm belief in their abilities.

Anisia Naimalo, captain of the team, exudes confidence as she speaks about their preparations, goals, and ambitions.

“We’ve poured our hearts and souls into our training,” she said, her voice reflecting on the team’s unity and resolve.

“Through teamwork, belief, hunger, and determination, we’ve set our sights on excelling at the nationals.”

Their coach, Dominic Ooga, is optimistic about performing well against other formidable opponents.

Pooled alongside defending champions Nyamira Girls, Tigoi Girls, and Nyayo Girls, Pangani faces a challenging road ahead.

However, Ooga finds solace in the guidance of experienced former players like Jackie Mwangi, Elizabeth Okama, and Doris Kirui, who have lent their expertise to shape the team’s strategies.

“The mentorship from these seasoned players has been invaluable,” said Ooga.

“It has helped us refine our game plans and instill a sense of confidence in executing them effectively.”

On facing top sides Nyamira Girls and Tigoi in Group A, Ooga said they have a game plan.

“Facing top sides in our Group A pool presents a formidable challenge, but we are prepared to execute our game plan with precision and adaptability,” Ooga said.

“Our strategy revolves around maintaining composure under pressure, capitalising on opportunities, and leveraging the collective strengths of our team to overcome any obstacle that comes our way.”

While Pangani Girls brace themselves for the battle, reigning champions Nyamira Girls emerge as the formidable force to beat.

With a string of titles under their belt, including the East Africa and national crowns, Nyamira Girls stand tall as the epitome of excellence in school hockey.

Nyamira’s captain Jacinta Opondo said they won’t rest until they achieve success.

“We’re not content with past successes; we’re driven to conquer new heights. For us, anything less than the title is unacceptable,” she said.

Indeed, Nyamira’s dominance was on full display as they clinched the Nyanza Region title with a convincing 4-1 victory over Ageng’a Mixed Secondary School.

Opondo’s eyes gleamed with determination as she spoke about their aspirations for East Africa glory, a goal that looms large on the horizon for the reigning champions.

“Our eyes are firmly fixed on the East Africa title,” Opondo said. “But first, we must conquer the nationals, leaving no doubt about our supremacy.”

Group B presents its own battleground, with Rift Valley giants St Joseph Girls Kitale leading the charge.

Coached by John Lusaka, St Joseph enter the fray with a blend of confidence and determination.

“We’re ready to challenge Nyamira for the title,” Lusaka said, his words echoing the team’s unwavering resolve.

St Joseph Girls Kitale headline a pool that includes St Joseph Kibwezi, Mpesa Academy, and St Charles Lwanga—a lineup that promises fierce competition and thrilling encounters on the hockey pitch.

With the stage set for the national Term One games, Pangani Girls High School emerge as a beacon of hope for the underdogs, a testament to the power of belief and perseverance.

With mental strength as their guiding light and patience as their ally, they march forward, ready to take on the giants and carve their own path to glory.

In the heart of every player beats the spirit of determination, fueled by the desire to defy expectations and etch their names in the annals of school hockey history.