Former national giants St Mary’s School, Yala and Ng’iya Girls’ High School are tipped to dominate the Siaya County Secondary Schools Term One Games, which begin on Thursday.
The three-day championships will be staged at Ukwala, Lifunga and Ugenya secondary schools, bringing together the county’s top teams in rugby, basketball, hockey and handball.
Ng’iya Girls’ head into the competition as defending county champions in hockey and basketball, while Yala are the holders in rugby 15s and handball.
Yala rugby coach George Kerima said the county event will serve as preparation for the regional championships.
“We have prepared the boys thoroughly. We are ready to face any team we come across. It will not be easy, but we believe this is the year to reclaim our lost glory at the regional level,” said Kerima.
Yala open their rugby campaign against Maranda, while Ambira High take on hosts Ugenya High in the other fixture.
In boys’ basketball, Yala are brimming with confidence after thrashing regional champions Sawagongo 113–68 in the sub-county final. Head coach Leonard Okuku believes they are primed for a strong run.
“No team will stop us at the county and regional level. We are also eyeing the national title,” said Okuku, who guided Sawagongo to regional glory last year.
Yala begin their title quest against Obambo, while Ambira face former champions Maranda High School.
In the girls’ basketball competition, Ng’iya Girls’, under coach Naftali Ambala, start their title defence against Kanyombok. Former champions Barchando meet Aluor Girls’, while Rang’ala face Kandaria in another anticipated clash.
Meanwhile, Nyamira Girls High School, coached by Stephen Kigai, are determined to reclaim their crown after falling short last season.
“We lost to Ng’iya at both the county and regional levels. That will not happen again. We are out to regain our trophy,” Kigai said.
Nyamira open against Lwak Girls in Pool B, which also features Mbaga and Nyamninia. Ng’iya headline Pool A alongside Kitambo and Nyawara, and begin their campaign against Nyawara.
Ng’iya coach Oduor Nyadida dismissed suggestions that last year’s triumph was fortunate.
“Some said we won by a fluke. This time, we want to win convincingly. By Saturday, teams must respect us,” he said.
In boys’ handball, Yala are in Pool A with Nyagondo, Hafumbwe and Kandaria, while Pool B comprises Dirk Allison, Usenge, Maranda and Rang’ala Boys.
Yala start against Hafumbwe as Nyagondo face Kandaria, and Usenge meet Rang’ala.
In the girls’ handball competition, Nyamira Girls’ begin their campaign against Sinaga. Sega also face Sinaga in another fixture, while Usingo play Simero and Wambasa take on Nyalunya.
