Newly promoted Elim White Ladies will bank on improved squad depth and a blend of experience and youth as they begin their FKF Women’s Premier League campaign, having used an extended pre-season to prepare for the demands of top-flight football.
Head coach Dan Masonic believes the team has addressed some of the shortcomings that emerged during their National Super League campaign and is confident they are ready for the step up.
“We have really improved. There were challenges like the weather, transport and the long break, but we are well prepared. We have been waiting for the league to start and we are ready,” said Masonic.
Elim secured promotion after finishing second in the 2025/26 NSL Zone B with 42 points from 18 matches, winning 13, drawing three and losing two. They scored 47 goals and conceded only 11.
The promotion marks another return to the top flight for a club that has undergone significant transformation, having previously competed in Zone B under the name Trans Nzoia Falcons.
Masonic cited squad depth as one of the key lessons from their NSL campaign and responded with an ambitious recruitment drive. Elim lost Noel Omtata to Kibera Starlets but retained most of their squad while signing 13 new players.
“It was a big blow to let Noel go, but it had to be done. We have done better in recruitment, bringing together experience and youth. Team bonding has also been good,” he said.
Masonic expects a more tactical approach in the Premier League, where Elim will face stronger opposition and greater pressure. “I will be more tactical and approach matches with caution. It is a league where we should not be caught flat-footed. We will take every match at a time,” he said.
Elim will open their campaign against Zetech Sparks at Ndura Sports Complex, with Masonic expecting the midfield battle to be decisive. “The midfield will be 50-50 and will carry the day. Desire and commitment will be important,” he said.
While avoiding relegation is the minimum target, Masonic believes Elim can aim higher. “The worst would be to remain in the league. I believe, on the other hand, we are also capable of the title.
That is the overall target,” he said. He has urged the players to trust their preparation and called on supporters to rally behind the team. “We have to believe in ourselves and execute what we have planned. I urge our fans to come and be our 12th player,” he said.
