Veteran Telkom forward Jacqueline Mwangi has announced her retirement from International hockey.
The new development comes after the forward was appointed the women’s national team assistant coach ahead of the Africa Cup Nation-cum-2020 Olympic qualifier set for August 12-24 in South Africa.
Mwangi, who is a back-to-back winner of the top scorer's accolade in the Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) women’s Premier League, said she is embracing coaching role and she is keen on moulding the upcoming players for the betterment of the sport.
Mwangi, who also coaches Hillcrest International School, however, said she will continue playing for her side in the league.
“I’m humbled by the gesture from KHU. I have played international hockey for over a decade now and there comes a time when you have to pass on the baton and I think this is the time. There are many players out there who can do better in that position. Stay longer in the positions means denying someone a chance,” said Mwangi, who is serving as a committee member in the International Hockey Federation.
She added: “It’s still an open training session at the City Park Stadium before we come up with the provisional squad. Our midfield and defence have been formidable but our attacking department is wanting both at the club and national level. The focus this time is to ensure the players are sharper in front of the goal.”
Mwangi is an assistant to United States International University Africa men’s hockey coach Tom Olal.
Reached for comment, Olal who is taking over from Willis Otieno, said the one slot up for grabs is within reach if only players show commitment.
“I’m not new to coaching the women’s side. I was the coach for Telkom in 1993 and won the league title. Therefore I know a thing or two about the women's game. I have given out the program to the players and if they follow it to the letter, we are likely to make progress,” said Olal. The men’s side will be coached by Meshack Senge and Moses Kagochi.
