Former hockey star Jebet hopes to inspire Nduru Boys

Faith Jebet, who helped Kapkolei Girls clinch the national girls' hockey title in 2014, is hoping to lead Kisii County champions Nduru Boys to the national championships this year.

“Nduru and Kapkolei have the same story. In 2014, nobody gave us a chance but we emerged as national champions and went to represent Kenya at the East Africa games. I hope to inspire Nduru Boys to the nationals,” she said on Tuesday.

Nduru edged Nyanza region champions Cardinal Otunga High School, Mosocho 1-0 to retain the Kisii County title for the second consecutive year and will represent the county at the regionals scheduled for Asumbi Teachers’ Training College starting on Wednesday.

Nduru Boys will face a baptism of fire on their debut at the regional level when they face defending champions Kisumu Day in the opening game before playing St Mary’s Yala in the second Pool 'B' game.

Pool ‘A’ has just two teams, Ringa Boys and Pe-Hill Boys since Nyamira County will not field teams in both the boy’s and girls’ hockey.

“I know we are in a very tough group but my boys are not afraid of facing the giants. If they play to my instructions, we shall pull a surprise. The boys have promised to make Nduru Boys management and Kisii County proud,” said Jebet.

She heaped praise on her charges, saying: “They are always positive and willing to learn. They are also determined and not afraid to face any team even though they are young and tiny,” noted the youthful coach.  

She thanked the school management, led by principal J.J Masime for supporting the team.

Kisumu Day coach Booker Odhiambo, however, warned that they are out to retain their regional title.

“I’m not underrating Nduru Boys or St Mary’s Yala since they have made it to the regionals by merit but we are ready to retain our trophy. My team is in perfect form and raring to go,” Odhiambo told the Star on phone.

Kisii County girls' representatives Amaiko SDA Girls coach Rose Ogori said they will use the opportunity to gain experience since this will be the first time they will be playing at the stage.

Amaiko defeated Kereri Girls 2-0 to win the Kisii County title on Saturday at Kisii School.

They will battle five-time national champions Sinyolo Girls and Nyamira Girls in Pool ‘B’ while Pool 'A' has Anding’o Girls and Ageng’a Girls will face off.

“This will be a learning curve for us. The girls will gain exposure and confidence when they play Sinyolo and Nyamira Girls,” said Ogori.