•The team comprising Under-14 and U16 (boys and girls) will depart on Friday for the event.
•Owino said the addition of new players into the system will add an element of excitement and anticipation.
Image: CHARLENE MALWA
Coach Rosemary Owino believes Team Kenya has what it takes to retain the title in the East Africa Zonal Championships scheduled for next week in Bujumbura, Burundi.
The team comprising Under-14 and U16 (boys and girls) will depart on Friday for the event. The team, according to the coach, will feature 12 players with three in each category. Coach Owino will be assisted by Tony Kipruto and Peter Rakuom.
“Having secured the overall title last year, We look forward to a repeat performance,” Owino Stated during an interview
“The players understand that every triumph intensifies the competition, prompting opponents to elevate their game. The dedication and unique approach to training are geared towards ensuring Kenya stands out on the court,” she added.
Owino said the addition of new players into the system will add an element of excitement and anticipation.
“The goal of the program is not just to succeed in the upcoming championships but to groom the young coaches into future tennis leaders. The positive energy radiating from the team during the camps is fostering an atmosphere of growth," she added.
Two intensive camps, a week of selections, and pairing sessions for the doubles have been instrumental in shaping the team.
The coach said doubles ties play a crucial role in deciding matches and they are determined to field perfect pairings that can bring glory to the country.
The coach also said that the presence of double Wimbledon junior champion Angela Okutoyi has added a touch of magic to the camp.
Angela, who trains on the same court as her peers, has become an inspiration to the upcoming players.
"The 'Angela effect' has even transcended borders, with talents from Burundi and Zimbabwe shining in the doubles event in Kenya," she said.
Tennis Kenya (TK) president James Kenani while flagging off the players declared the team ready for the Bujumbura event.
“As defending champions, they are acutely aware of the eyes fixed on them, and their goal is to make it challenging for their opponents,” he said.
Melissa Mwakha, currently based in Zimbabwe will lead the girls' U-16 category. She will be in the company of Stacy Yego and Haddassa Msine.
Girls U14 will have Nancy Kawira, Bathsheba Ogamba and while the boys' cadre will feature Jeff Okuku, Aum Chandarana and Ayaan Quadros.
Baraka Ominde will lead the boys' U-16 category alongside Ayush Bhandari and Brian Nyakundi