Soweto Academy coach Joseph Makabwa believes his side has what it takes to challenge for the title ahead the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association Term ‘2B’ Games set for July 3-8 in Nyeri.
The Kibera-based school will fly the regional flag at the national games, thanks to their 3-0 win over Nembu last weekend at Lenana School.
Soweto, who made their debut at the nationals last year having shocked favourites and two-time East Africa Kwanthanze during the then Metropolitan games, went ahead to finish second during the East Africa and nationals, behind eventual winner Kosirai.
But Makabwa said unlike last year, where they had no idea what to expect from the championship, this time around they know what to do.
“Unlike last year, where we were testing waters but still got the result, this time we have our work cut out and we know what we want,” said the tactician.
The team also known as the ‘Mighty Minnows’, enjoy the coaching services from Kenya Pipeline coach Japtheth Munala. This time round, they are pitted in Pool ‘A’ alongside former champions Cheptil, St John’s Kaloleni and Passenga, a group described as interesting.
He said, “All the teams in these pool are good. But truth be told—we are eager and looking forward to the tie against Cheptil. We haven’t played them before but we have seen them play and they are a good side,” he said.
“We were to play them during last month Amaco tournament in Eldoret but the clash failed to take off due to limited time. But now the opportunity has offered itself and we will be going for a win as our focus is to return to EA games.”
Pool ‘B’ features returnee Kwanthanze, former 21-time national champions Lugulu Girls, Sega and either Nyanza or Garissa representative.
Although the team lost four of their first team players in Josphine Nekesa, Bilha Chepleting, Niva Chemtai and Zanaibu Alemu who cleared their ‘O’ levels, the coach says they have perfect replacement. “Maureen Chembukha, Karen Chepkosgei, Hilda Chepkosgei and Lyne Chelagat have fit in well,” he said.