National secondary schools basketball champions Dr. Aggrey are confident of retaining their title when the national games get underway in Eldoret on Tuesday.
Dr. Aggrey’s principal and head coach Robert Aran said: “We are going to Eldoret to defend our title. I’m optimistic and confident.”
Speaking on Sunday, Aran said he is unfazed by the draw which pits them against former champions Laiser Hill, Nyanza champions Onjiko School and minnows Wajir High from the North Eastern region.
“It’s a tough group but when you are national champions, you expect to meet the best teams and it’s good we are meeting them at the group stage. We want to prove last year’s win was not by luck,” said Aran.
He said playing in the Coast Region basketball league has helped his boys to harden and gain experience.
“Playing in the league gives us an edge over our rivals. The league has given my boys an undying spirit of resilience and fortitude. The boys can be audacious and tenacious enough to compete against the best schools. The nationals will be a better terrain for them,” said a buoyant Aran.
In the Coast League final, Dr. Aggrey will face defending champions Congo United. Dr. Aggrey will open their campaign against Onjiko School. According to Onjiko’s principal and coach, Joseph Were agreed with his Dr. Aggrey counterpart that it’s a tough group.
He said: “It’s a group of opportunity, not death. I’m looking forward to the opening game. For you to be a champion, you must play against the best.”
Onjiko will be making their second consecutive appearance at the nationals. In the other Group ‘B’ game, former champions Laiser Hill will play Wajir High in their opener.
In Pool A, Lukenya School will battle it out with Thika High School in the opening match while Dagoretti High will clash with Western region’s Friends School Kamusinga.
Basketball, hockey, handball and referees clinics kicked off yesterday at Hill School while the swimming and athletics clinic will start today at the same venue.
Hill School will host hockey and handball while Nova International School will stage basketball.
Nova will also host swimming while rugby will be held at Eldoret Sports Club. Moi Girls Eldoret will also host athletics and cross country.
