Team Kenya set sights on Africa Junior championships

Coach Oyoo is bullish about the team’s chances after sharpening their skills with some friendly matches last week.

by TEDDY MULEI

Sports25 February 2025 - 11:56

In Summary

Home advantage will be key as they chase a ticket to the ITF World Under-14 tournament in the Czech Republic from August 4-9.
“We are looking at the bigger picture by trying to qualify for the World Championships. Playing at home and getting familiar with the courts at Nairobi Club will be key,” said Oyoo.

Kenya U14 boys’ team /SCREENSHOT

The Kenya under 14 tennis boys’ side have set their sights on the Africa Junior championships which start at the Nairobi Club on Wednesday.

Coach George Oyoo is bullish about the team’s chances after sharpening their skills with some friendly matches last week.

“The (warm-up) tournament has been an eye-opener. We have seen the areas we need to improve. We have had a couple of wins and some losses and we have polished some of our weak areas ahead of the championship,” said Oyoo.

Home advantage will be key as they chase a ticket to the ITF World Under-14 tournament in the Czech Republic from August 4-9.

“We are looking at the bigger picture by trying to qualify for the World Championships. Playing at home and getting familiar with the courts at Nairobi Club will be key,” said Oyoo.

“Tunisia are the favourites based on the talent they have and the experience (of playing) in the event. But my boys are going to give it their best shot.”

Others are Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Ghana and South Africa. Kenya qualified for the continental championships after winning the Eastern Africa Zonal tournament at the Nairobi Club last month.

Team Kenya will be represented by Jeff Okuku, Ayush Bhandari, Bulsara Vihaan and Ayaan Quadros. They are relishing the battle.

“We have had solid training sessions for the past month and we expect a tough battle. We have the momentum after winning the Eastern Africa Championships,” said Okuku.

Tennis Kenya administrator Nancy Nduku said: “In terms of logistics, umpires and the playing surface we are ready. We are looking forward to the start of the competition and I am asking our fans to turn up in large numbers and support the team.”