All eyes will be on minnows St Patrick’s Segere Mixed Secondary School's athletics team as the Siaya Sub County athletics heavyweights eye to leave a mark in the fiercely competitive arena.
With seven top students qualifying from the sub-county level to represent their school in various events, expectations are high for a commendable performance ahead of the Siaya County Secondary School games set to kick off on Thursday (today).
Led by their principal Ngala Mbuor, Segere are challenging themselves to prove that Siaya and Nyanza region can also do well in athletics, a sport synonymous with athletes from Rift Valley region.
Located in the outskirts of Siaya town, in Alego Usonga Constituency, Segere want to send shock waves just like Kakamega High School and Kisii School make when they play rugby, basketball and hockey.
Alphonse Odhiambo, a Form Four student, is set to dazzle in the triple jump, while Form One Winnie Adhiambo aims to stride to victory in the walking race.
Sheila Auma, a Form Two student, is ready to showcase her speed in the 800m, while in the long jump, Philip Ohanya, another Form Four talent, is prepared to leap beyond expectations.
The cross-country event will witness the endurance and strength of Bertrand Otieno and Ronnie Otieno, both from Form Two, racing side by side.
Meanwhile, Millicent Otieno, a Form Three student, is eyeing the top spot in the discus throw as she targets not just county glory, but regional honors as well.
Speaking about her ambitions, Otieno shared her determination and strategy in the upcoming events.
“My aim is not just to win at the county level, but to go beyond and shine at the regional finals. I’ve been working on my technique and strength, focusing on every detail that can give me an edge,” said Otieno.
George Omondi, the dedicated head coach of Segere’s athletics team, expressed his optimism and detailed the rigorous preparation the team has undergone.
“Our boys and girls have put in immense effort in training, focusing on their individual events while also fostering a spirit of teamwork," he said.
“We've analysed our competitors, worked on our weaknesses, and I’m confident that our athletes will make us proud,” he added.
St Patrick’s Segere Principal Ngala Mbuor he supports and encourages students’ participation in sports and co-curricular activities because sports instill confidence, instigate healthy competition, and provide opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth.
"As educators, we understand that the development of our students goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. Sports and co-curricular activities play a vital role in shaping well-rounded individuals.
“At St. Patrick's Segere, we firmly believe in nurturing not only academic excellence but also holistic growth. Through sports, our students learn the values of teamwork, discipline, resilience, and sportsmanship – qualities essential for success in any endeavor,” said Mbuor.
Moreover, Mbuor said sports contribute to a well-balanced educational experience, enhancing physical health and mental well-being.
“Engaging in co-curricular activities fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie, creating a supportive community where every student can thrive.
“As stewards of education, it is our responsibility to cultivate not only the minds but also the hearts and bodies of our students. By embracing sports and co-curricular activities, we empower our students to become not just scholars, but also resilient, adaptable, and compassionate individuals ready to conquer the challenges of the world," he said.
SIAYA COUNTY
St Patrick’s Segere Athletics team
1.Alphonse Odhiambo -Tripple jump
2.Winnie Adhiambo-Walk race
3.Sheila Auma- 800m
4.Philip Ohanya- Long Jump
5.Bertrand Otieno- Cross-country
6.Ronnie Otieno-Cross-country
7.Millicent Otieno- Discus
Coach-George Omondi
Principal-Ngala Mbuor
