Schools: Newcomers Kangundo seek memorable national debut

Tetu High School's Kennedy Toek (4) and Kevin Jakait blocks attack from Dismas Rono of Cheptil Hiigh School during their East Afrca Secondary School Games volleball match at Eldoret Polytechinic, Uasin Gishu County on August 27, 2016.[PHOTO:DENNIS OKEYO/STANDARD]

After several failed attempts, Kangundo Boys High School finally got it right this year.

The Eastern Region representatives will be making their maiden appearance at the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association national Term Two B Games set for next week in Nyeri.

They were crowned boys' volleyball champions following their 3-0 (25-20, 25-22, 25-16) victory over Gatuamba in the region's final.

They have made small but timely steps up the ladder and now seem ready to rattle the big boys. In 2015, they did not make it past Machakos County, but that did not dampen their spirits as they continued to sharpen their skills. Last year, they showed some improvement, finishing third in the now defunct Metropolitan Region.

Following the Ministry of Education's directive to revert to the previous provincial boundaries, Kangundo returned their original Eastern home and Lady Luck smiled on them as they won their first regional title.

And now, they will be seeking a dream entry into the big stage. Kangundo coach Paul Mukeke is confident that his boys will overcome the top guns and win the national gong.

"A memorable debut is all we want. We have worked very hard over the years and I believe our time to shine is here," Mukeke said.

He added that despite his boys bearing the underdogs tag, he believes in their talent and abilities.

"I have confidence in my players. They have what it takes to become national champions even though this will be their first time at this level."

Kangundo play defending champions Cheptil of Rift Valley, East Africa holders Malava of Western, former champs Hospital Hill of Nairobi, Sengera SDA of Nyanza. [Elizabeth Mburugu]