National Sevens rugby champions Koyonzo Boys head coach Eliud Okwemba has promised to dominate the East Africa region after reaching the finals of the ongoing Western region school games at the Bull Ring in Kakamega county.
The regional champions from Kakamega county defeated Kimobo of Bungoma in the semis to set a final date with Vihiga High School, who beat Bungoma High.
“We want to take over rugby, not just in Kenya but in East Africa," said Okwemba, whose team finished second during the East Africa School Games in Tanzania last year.
After losing out in the 15s last term following a suspension, Okwemba said he wants to build a new Sevens team.
“We were treated unfairly in the 15s tournament last term but we are focused on winning fairly in Sevens as we seek to defend our title,” added Okwemba.
In the semifinal, watched by school principal Solomon Sisuma, the regional champions were 27-0 winners over newbies Kimobo.
Erick Mbakaya failed to convert first and second tries by
Kevin Simiyu and Debril Joseph sent the winners to a 10-0 lead. After the water break, Kevin Simiyu added seven points with Mbakaya and Maxwell Kipsang adding a try each.
“We always trust in the Lord. We always pray before and after any game or training. Above all, we have also put academics ahead. They learn and play at the same time,” said Sisuma.
Vihiga, who lost to St Peter’s Mumias in last year's quarterfinals, have hopes of winning the title come Saturday morning on their way to the nationals.
They thrashed Bungoma 24-0 to reach the final.
Emmanuel Pilla bagged a hat trick of tries while Roy Maruti added one try and two conversions.
Head coach Abdallah Abubakar, said: “My players are eager to lift the trophy. We have built this squad for a long time. They are good in ball handling, creativity and have a good structure."
In boys' volleyball, champions Namwela will take on former multiple national champions Malava Boys in the final to be played at St Peter’s Mumias.
Isaac Muresia's side edged county rivals Teremi Boys in straight sets of 25-10, 25-14 and 25-17 while Malava recorded scores of 25-21, 25-11 and 25-16 against Sigalame.
In girls' volleyball, multiple champions Lugulu beat Miruri in straight sets of 25-6, 25-8 and 25-13 to set a final date with Mwitoti, who were 3-0 ( 25-22, 25-16 and 25-16) winners over Butere.