SCHOOLS: Rift Valley schools games set to kick off amidst high expectations

Debra Cherotich of Kisumu Girls tackle Cynthia Nasike of St Joseph's Girls during Kenya Secondary Schools sports Association Term One games in Machakos County. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Excitement and anticipation are mounting in Bomet as the Rift Valley Secondary Schools Games prepare to kick off on Wednesday, bringing together a diverse array of talents and contenders from across the region.

With the elimination of former football champions St Anthony at the county level, this year’s games promise an unpredictable and fiercely competitive atmosphere.

The spotlight is particularly on new entrants across various disciplines, poised to challenge the dominance of established powerhouses.

Among the standout contenders are Trans Nzoia champions St Joseph’s and former champions Laiser Hill Academy of Kajiado, both determined to clinch top honors in their respective fields.

In volleyball, Laiser Hill Academy finds itself in Pool D, facing off against formidable opponents such as Lelmokwo of Nandi, Ololulunga from Narok, and Jomo Kenyatta of Nakuru.

Meanwhile, St. Joseph’s contends in Pool B alongside Thingitu of Laikipia, Arsen from Uasin Gishu, and Kabarnet Boys representing Baringo.

Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association Rift Valley branch secretary, Kirwa Koech, highlighted the influx of new talent this year, noting, “We have seen many new entrants, adding to the unpredictability of the competition. However, we still have a few giants who will undoubtedly add spice to the games.”

In boys’ volleyball, defending champions Cheptil and perennial contenders Simat from West Pokot are set to renew their rivalry. Cheptil is drawn into Pool B, where they will face Isinya of Kajiado, Andersen from Trans Nzoia, and Nawoitoroing representing Turkana.

Pool A features Kakibei of Kericho, Nyiro from Samburu, and Kamito of West Pokot, while Pool C includes Olmoran of Laikipia, Kongoi from Nakuru, Tenwek of Bomet, and Poror representing Baringo.

Pool D sees competition from Rongena of Narok, St. Patrick’s Iten from Elgeyo Marakwet, and Simat of Uasin Gishu.

The tournament is not short on excitement in girls’ volleyball, where teams like Kesogon of Trans Nzoia, Kosirai from Nandi, and Nasokol of West Pokot are prepared to showcase their prowess in different pools.

Koech emphasized the expected intensity in football and volleyball due to unfamiliar matchups, stating, “We anticipate major showdowns in these disciplines, although basketball is not to be underestimated.”

Laiser Hill Academy’s prominence extends to boys’ 3x3 basketball, placed in Pool A alongside Lodwar Boys and St. Joseph’s of Trans Nzoia. Former champions Menengai, positioned in Pool D with Kilgoris Boys and Simotwo, are also anticipated to make a significant impact.

A total of 14 counties will be represented by over 1000 players across various venues in Bomet during this three-day sporting extravaganza.

As the games commence, all eyes are on the young athletes to deliver exhilarating performances and write new chapters in the storied history of the Rift Valley Secondary Schools Games.