SCHOOLS: Kitondo sets sights on national glory ahead of Eastern Region rugby showdown
Rugby
By
Washington Onyango
| Mar 19, 2024
The Eastern Region Secondary School Term One games are poised to offer an electrifying showdown, with Makueni County rugby 15s champions Kitondo School, setting their sights on a historic run to the national finals this year.
Kitondo, who made a commendable journey to the semifinals last year, are bracing for a tough challenge in Group A, where they will lock horns with defending champions, All Saints, alongside formidable opponents, Miathene and Chogoria.
Under the guidance of their head coach, Michael Satia, Kitondo has been rigorously preparing for the regional showdown, with ambitions not just to participate, but to dominate and advance to the national stage.
"Our preparations have been focused and intense. We've analysed our performances of our games last year and identified areas for improvement. Our goal is to reach the national finals and make a significant impact," Satia said.
Kitondo's confidence is sky-high following a remarkable performance in the Makueni County rugby 15s finals, where they showcased their dominance by not conceding a single try throughout the tournament.
READ MORE
Zimbabwe cabinet agrees plan to extend president's term to 2030
EACC goes after Kaberia, Mwendwa over Sh330m in CHAN stadium scam
Relief as government plans tax cuts for low-income earners
Why Turkey climate summit must bring hope to agriculture sector
Infantino condemns Senegal for 'unacceptable scenes' in AFCON final
New regulations will unlock untapped potential of solar water heating
Why Africa should step up efforts to reduce methane emissions
Government lists 14 areas in Narok County as security-disturbed, dangerous
Ruto's Sh5 trillion promise: Path to economic freedom or political stunt?
Climate action must anchor global economic strategy, Ruto says
The team's journey to the county championship was nothing short of spectacular, with decisive victories over Kikumini (63-0), Kathonzweni (34-0), and Mbooni Boys (24-0) in the group stages.
They continued their formidable form by thrashing Makueni Boys (58-0) and overcoming Kaseko Boys (32-3) in the final.
"Our performance in the county finals was a testament to our hard work, discipline, and team spirit. Whitewashing our opponents and maintaining a solid defense has boosted our confidence immensely," Satia said.
Building on the momentum from last year when Kitondo clinched the rugby Sevens regional title and made a significant mark at the nationals, the team is eager to replicate and even surpass their previous achievements.
"Last year's success in the rugby Sevens was just the beginning. We're aiming higher this year, and our ultimate goal is to shine at the national level in rugby 15s," Satia added.
The unwavering support from their principal, Richard Mokaya, has been instrumental in Kitondo's rising rugby program.
"Our Principal's support has been invaluable. From ensuring that we have the necessary resources, to providing moral support, Mokaya has been a cornerstone of our team's success," Satia said.
EASTERN REGION SECONDARY SCHOOL POOLS
Rugby 15s
Group A-All Saints, Mathene, Kitondo, Chogoria
Group B-Kitui, Dakabaricha, Machakos, Ngaremare
Handball Girls
Group A-Kieganguru, Muvitha, Marsabit, Munyuni
Group B-Kwathanze, Katheri, Kyeni, Isiolo
Hanball Boys
Group A-Mbooni, Isiolo, Matuu Day, Marsabit
Group B-Kajiundudhi, Meru School, Kalonzo School, Kevote School