Jaguars go hunting for glory in the Africa Club championships

Butali Sugar's Francis Kariuki (right) and Bethuel Wanyonyi of Western Jaguar during Africa Cup Club championships. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Reigning Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) men's Premier League champions Western Jaguars are intensely preparing for the Africa Cup for Club Championships (ACCC) set for January 30 to February 7 at The Youth City Hockey Stadium in Port Said, Egypt.

Fresh from bagging their maiden league title, Jaguars are determined to improve on their second-place finish at the last edition held in Blantyre, Malawi.

The Kenyans settled for silver after losing 2-4 to record champions Sharkia from Egypt.

This was a show of improvement for Jaguars who had finished fifth on their continental debut during the championship that Kenya hosted at the Dashmesh Hockey Stadium.

They will be up against top clubs in the continent among them defending champions Sharkia and local rivals United States International University of Africa (USIU-A).

Jaguars coach Mike Malungu said they are working of a few areas ahead of the tournament.

"We are preparing well. We have been in a residential training in Kakamega and are looking forward to another camp in Nairobi from this Friday," Malungu said.

Malungu added that the team, which is a blend of experienced and young players, is raring to go. He is also expecting national team midfielder Irvan Ludiali, who is currently playing for Delta Venlo in the Netherlands, to link up with the squad.

However, even as the team prepares for the battle on the pitch, the club management is working around the clock to raise funds to enable the players honour the assignment.

Club president Ken Ashimosi said they are facing difficulties raising the Sh6 million budget required for the trip.

Jaguars suffered a major setback following the sudden death of their former Club president Wilfred Mutubwa.

"Our president's death hit us hard because he was our main man. He mobilised resources, sought sponsorships and secured partnerships that kept the club afloat. His foundation was our key sponsor and even paid fees for high school and university students who are in our development programme," Ashimosi said.

He added that at the time of his demise, Mutubwa, who was also the Dean at Mount Kenya University School of Law, was sourcing for funds.

"We are yet to recover from his death because he shouldered financial responsibilities and even secured a shirt sponsorship from DTE Logistics."

The Kenyan sides to the 35th edition of the ACCC will be looking to end the Egyptians dominance and win Kenya its second title.