SCHOOLS: Ng'iya Girls hockey team ready to work for regionals dream

Carren 'Mheshimiwa' Akinyi in action against Kisumu Queens during a friendly match at Kisumu Simba. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

The air is charged with excitement as secondary school teams from across Siaya County gear up for the Term One games set to kick off on Thursday at Siaya Medical Center.

Ng’iya Girls hockey team is eyeing a spot in the Nyanza Regional finals next month after a disappointing performance last year.

Ng'iya Girls hockey players in action during a training session ahead of the Siaya County games.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Having missed out on the regionals in the previous edition, Ng’iya Girls are determined to turn the tables and secure a coveted spot this time around.

Ng'iya Girls' Lavina Otieno in action during a friendly match in Kisumu. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Despite finishing second last in a challenging group that included powerhouses like Nyawara, Lwak, Mbaga, and reigning East African champions Nyamira Girls, Ng’iya Girls are optimistic about their chances this year.

Ng'iya Girls hockey team and technical bench.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Pooled in Group A alongside defending champions Nyamira and Nyawara, Ng’iya Girls understand the significance of each match as they aim to progress to the knockout stage and ultimately reach the finals.

Coach Edwin Ogony emphasized the team's preparedness for the tournament, highlighting improvements made compared to last year.

Ng'iya Girls coach Edwin Ogony.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

"We've worked tirelessly to address our weaknesses from last season. The girls have shown remarkable dedication and improvement in their skills and teamwork. We believe we are better equipped to compete this year and secure a spot in the regional finals," said Ogony.

Keisha Kateleen of Ng'iya Girls (right) in action against Kisumu Queens during a friendly match in Kisumu. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

"Sports play a vital role in the holistic development of our students. It instills discipline, teamwork, and resilience, qualities that are essential for success both on and off the field. We are committed to nurturing talent and promoting sports excellence at Ng’iya Girls," remarked Ng’iya Principal Hellen Juma.

Ng'iya Girls hockey players in action during a training session ahead of the Siaya County games.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

In the boys' hockey category, Yala, Barding, and Sirembe are pitted against each other in Group A, while Group B features Sawagongo, Ambira, Usenge, and Chianda.

Keisha Kateleen of Ng'iya Girls in action against Kisumu Queens during a friendly match in Kisumu. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

On the other hand, in the girls' hockey division, Nyamira, Ng’iya, and Nyawara will battle it out in Group A, while Group B comprises Lwak, Sinaga, and Mbaga.

SIAYA COUNTY

HOCKEY BOYS

Group A-Yala, Barding, Sirembe

Group B-Sawagongo, Ambira, Usenge, Chianda

HOCKEY GIRLS

Group A-Nyamira, Ngiya, Nyawara

Group B-Lwak, Sinaga, Mbaga

Ng’iya Girls Hockey

2024 Target-Nyanza Regionals

Last time at regionals-2006

2023 Performance-County

2022 Performance-County

Coach-Edwin Ogony, George Nyadida, Jackeline, Nancy