SCHOOLS: Calm down! Kisumu Day is ready for KSSSA Term Two Games

Kisumu Day captain calms down his players during the Kisumu Central Sub County games.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Kisumu Day High School, known for their prowess on the football pitch, are confident of surpassing last year's performance as they gear up for the Kenyan Secondary School Sports Association (KSSSA) Term Two games.

The multiple Kisumu County football boys' champions, affectionately known as ‘Yudhee,’ have their sights set on returning to the national finals after a year's absence.

Last year, Kisumu Day's campaign ended in heartbreak when they were ousted at the regional level by Homa Bay's Agoro Sare High School in the Nyanza Region finals held in Bondo.

Despite this setback, the team is determined to reclaim their place among Kenya's top school football teams.

In 2022, Kisumu Day showcased their footballing pedigree by finishing third at the KSSSA national games in Nakuru. They narrowly missed out on a place in the final, losing to Highway Secondary School in a tense penalty shootout in the semifinals.

However, they bounced back impressively, thrashing Olbolosat Secondary School 6-0 in the third-place playoff.

Kisumu Day forward Braidone Simidi (right) in action during the Kisumu Central Sub County games.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

This year, Kisumu Day have already sent a strong message to their rivals with an outstanding performance in the Kisumu Central Sub County games, which serve as qualifiers for the Kisumu County games.

Yudhee have scored an astonishing 26 goals while conceding only one, demonstrating their formidable attacking and defensive capabilities.

In the preliminaries, Kisumu Day delivered emphatic victories, hammering Joel Omino Secondary 7-0 and Xaverian Secondary 6-0 before a goalless draw with Magadi School.

Their dominance continued in the semifinals with an 8-1 thrashing of Kudho Mixed Secondary School, followed by a commanding 4-0 win over arch-rivals Kisumu Boys in the finals.

Kisumu Day striker Bravon Ochieng.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Central to Kisumu Day’s success has been the brilliant form of striker Bravon Ochieng, who has netted six goals.

However, it’s the collective effort and teamwork that has truly stood out, with players sharing the remaining 20 goals among themselves. This unity and shared responsibility on the pitch have been key factors in their formidable performance.

As they prepare for the Kisumu County finals set to kick off on Thursday at Maseno School, Kisumu Day coach Benjamin Oyoo expressed his team's readiness and determination.

Kisumu Day face hosts Maseno School, Kasagam, and Nyakoko in Group A, while Ndiru, Obambo and Kisumu Boys battle in Group B.

"We've had a rigorous preparation period, focusing on both our physical conditioning and tactical approach. The boys are in high spirits, and we are taking it one game at a time," Oyoo said.

"Facing hosts Maseno, Kasagam, and Nyakoko in Group A will be challenging, but we are confident in our abilities."

Kisumu Day coach Booker Odhiambo.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Booker Odhiambo, the team manager, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and composure throughout the tournament.

"Our strategy is to approach each match with the same level of intensity and respect for our opponents. We've learned from last year's disappointment, and the boys are hungry for success. We believe in our potential to go all the way."

The team’s rigorous preparations and strong performances in the lead-up games have set a solid foundation for their county campaign. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, Kisumu Day is poised to make a significant impact.

The upcoming county finals at Maseno School will be a crucial step in their journey back to the national stage. With their current form and determined mindset, Kisumu Day aims to reclaim their status as one of Kenya's premier school football teams.

Kisumu Day forward Braidone Simidi (left) in action during the Kisumu Central Sub County games.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on ‘Yudhee’ to see if they can translate their early dominance into county and national glory.

With a well-drilled squad, a focused coaching staff, and a burning desire to succeed, Kisumu Day High School is indeed a team to watch in this year's KSSSA National Term Two games.

Kisumu County Sports Pools

Football Boys

Group A - Kisumu Day, Maseno, Kasagam, Nyakoko
Group B - Ndiru, Obambo, Kisumu Boys
Group C - Nyando, Nyakach, Lela

Football Girls

Group A - Nyakach 1, Tiengre, Migingo, Dr. Aloo Gumbo
Group B - Nyando, Dago Kokore, Nyakach 2
Group C - Nyakoko, Kudho, Bishop Abiero Magwar

Volleyball Boys

Group A - Nyando 1, Obambo, St. Pauls Bar, Kandege
Group B - Magadi, Chulaimbo, Nyando 2
Group C - Nyakach, Kadibo, St. Josephs

Volleyball Girls

Group A - Nyakach 1, Huma, Bishop Abiero Oruga, Nyando
Group B - Masogo, Ojola, Nyakach 2
Group C - Koru, Kisumu Girls, Kibos Sec

Netball

Group A - Nyakach 1, Sinyolo, Kudho, Nyando
Group B - Dr. Aloo Gumbo, Wachara, Nyakach 2
Group C - Ngere Jagoro, St. Peters Kindu, Masogo

Basketball Boys

Group A - Nyando 1, Maseno, Chemelil, Kasagam
Group B - Lions, Chulaimbo, Nyando 2
Group C - Kisumu Boys, Nyakach 2, Otieno Oyoo
Group D - Nyakach 1, Ngere, Kandege

Basketball Girls

Group A - Nyakach 1, Sinyolo, Nyando 1, Koru
Group B - Kisumu Girls, Ojola, Nyando 2, Nyakach 2
Group C - St. Barnabas, Dr. Aloo Gumbo, St. Teresa

Note: Rugby to be pooled at the venue.