Musingu High boys hockey coach, Bramwell Lijodi, radiates confidence as his team gears up to defend their Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) national title amidst a challenging group draw.
This year’s national finals will take place at the Machakos Boys’ High School from today to Saturday.
Placed in Pool 'B', Musingu face off against formidable foes including multiple champions St. Anthony Boys’ Kitale, Katangi Boys and Murang’a High.
Despite the daunting line-up, Lijoodi remains undaunted, affirming their readiness to hold onto their crown.
"We're entering the championships with unwavering confidence. Our group is tough, but we're determined to keep our title," asserted the seasoned tactician.
Musingu will go head to head against St. Anthony in their opening match, reliving last year’s national final, where teenage sensation Isaac Wanjawa scored the all-important goal to seal the title for Musinga in Eldoret.
The coach noted that the first match would prove a huge test for the side and would probably be a tournament decider.
"St. Anthony are a force to reckon with and this match will not be a walk in the park. Facing them first is a true test but let the best team prevail," the coach noted.
Lijodi emphasised the importance of tactical acumen and discipline in their title defence, “Our preparations have been good and the boys are more than ready. Tactical superiority and discipline will be key in our title defence.”
With meticulous preparation and a hunger for success, Musingu will be eyeing successive triumphs as they confront Katangi Boys on Wednesday and Murang’a High on Thursday.
The semifinals will take place on Friday with the playoffs and finals slated for Saturday.
Highlighting their dominant 7-0 victory over rivals Friends School Kamusinga in the regional finals, Lijoodi underscored the team's winning mindset heading into the nationals.
“Winning the regional title is a huge morale booster. It has given us a winning mentality as we go into the nationals,” he stated.
Pool ‘A’ will be comprised of Meru School, St. Charles Lwanga, Nairobi School and Ringa Boys’.
POOL A
Meru School
St. Charles Lwanga
Nairobi School
Ringa Boys’
POOL B
Katangi Boys’
St. Anthony’s Boys’ Kitale
Murang’a High
Musingu High
