Dagoretti Mixed Girls’ handball coach Wilson Oduor has set his sights on making a maiden appearance at the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association national final.
The Nairobi-based school are in Pool 'A' alongside last year’s runners-up Moi Girls' Kamusinga, Moi Forces Mombasa and Kwanthanze.
“We are looking at making our first appearance in the final. All we need is two wins in the group to qualify for the next round. We are confident of topping the group,” said Oduor.
Dagoretti will come up against Kamusinga in their opening match on Tuesday. Oduor hopes for a strong start.
"Kamusinga is a formidable team, but we're geared up for a resounding victory in our first match."
Dagoretti were eliminated in the group stages last year after losing 18-42 to Kamusinga, 22-33 to Nyanza’s Miranga and 22-30 to Dr. Charles Muli of Eastern.
Oduor said defensive improvements will be crucial. "We have strengthened our defence compared to last year in our performances in the regional games is anything to go by," said Oduor.
They outplayed Highridge Girls' 49-13 to secure the regional crown and secure a spot at the nationals.
He hopes to repay the support they have had from the school.
“The school supports us in every aspect. Support is fundamental in sports, especially for girls. Training is also key to our success,” he added.
Their football is in the Chapa Dimba national finals slated for Kisumu on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Hospital Hill coach Emmanuel Wabule will defend the boys' handball title in Machakos.
They are in Pool 'A' alongside Kimilili Boys, Handege Secondary and North Eastern representatives.
“If all factors remain constant, we will retain our title,” Wabule stated.
However, caution is key.
“The group is fair but that does not mean we relax. We will take each game at a time, putting in all our efforts,” he stated.
Handball
Girls'
Pool 'A'
Moi Forces Mombasa
Dagoretti Mixed
Kwanthanze
Moi Girls' Kamusinga
Pool 'B'
Ulande Girls'
Murinduko Baptist
North Eastern
Nyathuna Secondary
Boys'
Pool 'A'
Kimilili Boys'
Handege Secondary
Hospital Hill
North Eastern
Pool 'B'
Manyatta Boys'
Mbooni Boys'
Saniak Boys'
Mwangea Secondary