Mombasa County Hockey Association President Oliver Mascarenhas expects low turn up of teams in this year's Jamhuri Hockey festival set for next month at Mombasa Sports Club.
The annual two-day tournament slated for November 11-12 returns after it was cancelled last year due to unprecedented challenges brought about by Covid-19 pandemic.
"The conditions set by the Ministry of Health are tough and must be adhered to. PCR tests are proving a challenge to clubs and therefore, we expect a small number of teams in this year's showpiece."
More than 28 teams graced the 2019 edition. He challenged clubs to honour the tournament to help players gauge themselves ahead of KHU League early next year.
"Players must be excited to play in this tournament because hockey has not been played for almost two years. We can't wait to return to the turf and enjoy the game we all love."
At the same time, Mascarenhas attested that the inaugural Coast Hockey League is expected to start later this month. The competition will attract both the men and women's teams and will run for a six-month period.
"All is set for the Coast League this month. We want to keep our athletes active and the event will take roughly six months."
Teams must confirm their participation not later than November 30th and entries accepted on a first come, first serve, basis only. Teams will be allowed to register a maximum of 15 players.
Fixtures will be drafted in accordance with the Kenya Hockey Union festival rules. Participants have also been advised to take anti-malarial precautions because Mombasa is prone to malaria.