St Mary's Yala excels on the field and in the classroom following KCSE success

St Mary's Yala Principal V.O Makanda with his rugby players. [Washington Onyango,Standard] St Mary's School Yala continues to cement its legacy as a dual powerhouse in academics and sports after an impressive performance in the recently released Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) results. With their students excelling both in their academic pursuits and on the pitch, the Siaya County-based institution has become a shining example of holistic development in secondary schools. The school, which boasts a rich history of sports excellence, added another feather to its cap last year when it secured the Nyanza Region rugby sevens championship and a national rugby sevens bronze medal. This success was mirrored in the classroom, with the rugby team and other student-athletes posting remarkable results in the KCSE. Rugby players such as Abel Oyaro, who scored a B, and Nicholas Ouma, who also achieved a B, stood out for their ability to juggle the demands of the sport and academics. Other notable performers included Actross Otieno and Emmanuel Juma Madere, who both secured a B+, highlighting the balance cultivated at the institution. St Mary's Yala Principal V.O Makanda (cenetr) with YOBA Old boys. [Washington Onyango,Standard] St Mary's Yala Principal Victor Makanda attributed this success to a well-structured program that prioritizes both academics and co-curricular activities. "We believe in a balanced approach to education," said Makanda. "Sports teach discipline, teamwork, and resilience, values that translate into academic excellence. Our goal is to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive both in class and on the field." Makanda further outlined plans to elevate the school's performance even higher in 2025. "We are working to strengthen our sports infrastructure while offering additional academic support programs for our athletes. This includes hiring more specialized coaches and organizing regular workshops to help our students manage their time effectively," he added. The commitment to nurturing talent beyond the classroom was evident in the school's volleyball and hockey teams as well. Volleyball standout Edward Hamilton scored a B, while hockey players such as Geevan Kiprono and Hillary Otieno earned respectable grades of B- and B, respectively. Regional Achievements Mirror National Glory St Mary's Yala's success is emblematic of the larger trend in Nyanza Region, where schools have consistently combined academic achievement with sports excellence. For instance, Kisumu Girls' rugby team, the Kisumu County and Nyanza Region rugby 15s champions, saw outstanding results. Players Lorna Yvone and Agnetta Anita both scored an impressive A-, while teammates Dora Akeyo and Teresa Akwata each earned a B+. Ng'iya Girls High School, champions in basketball in Siaya County and Nyanza Region, also celebrated a stellar academic performance. Tracy Sally, the Nyanza basketball MVP, scored a B-, alongside several of her teammates, including Christine Mitchell and Irene Atieno, who posted similar grades. Otieno Oyoo High School, which clinched the Nyanza Region rugby sevens bronze medal last year, also showcased excellence. Team captain Nashon Mwangangi, who was named the 2024 Nyanza Region rugby sevens MVP, scored a C+, highlighting the balance between sports and academics. At Nyakach Girls High School, football stars who reached the national finals secured good grades, with players like Swaumu Masungo and Molenter Anyango scoring C+. These results speak volumes about the ability of schools in the region to foster holistic growth in their students. Parents Encouraged to Support Co-Curricular Activities Nyanza Region Secondary School Sports Association Vice Chair, Ngala Mbuor, who is also the chairman of the Siaya County Secondary School Sports Association, emphasized the importance of co-curricular activities in a student's development. "Sports instill life skills that are critical for success beyond school," said Mbuor. "They teach young people how to work under pressure, manage time, and stay disciplined. These are values that are transferable to their academic lives and future careers. I urge parents to encourage their children to participate in co-curricular activities and for school heads to create opportunities for their students to explore their talents." Mbuor also highlighted the role of sports in opening doors for further education and professional opportunities. "Through sports, students gain scholarships, travel opportunities, and networks that help them progress in life. It's important that we support and celebrate this balance between sports and academics," he added. Other Notable Results The success stories extend beyond St Mary's Yala. At Onjiko High School, basketball standout Brian Mosioma, part of the Kisumu County and Nyanza Region basketball 3x3 champion team, achieved an impressive B+. Similarly, Sameta High School hockey captain Bravin Mokua led his team to the county finals while scoring an A plain in his KCSE exams. Butere Girls, known for their dominance in football, also had standout performers. Two-time national champion and recently signed Kenya Bullets defender Vidah Akeyo earned a B, while her teammate, Kenya U20 and U17 defender Judith Nandwa, scored a B+. These results reflect the dedication of schools in the region to nurturing well-rounded individuals capable of excelling both in academics and sports. A Holistic Approach to Success As schools like St Mary's Yala, Kisumu Girls, and Ng'iya Girls continue to set the benchmark for balancing academics and sports, their success stories are a testament to the power of holistic education. By fostering an environment where students can thrive on and off the field, these institutions are shaping the next generation of leaders and champions. With the 2025 sports calendar just around the corner, the region's schools are already gearing up for another year of excellence. Thanks to dedicated teachers, supportive parents, and the resilience of the students themselves, the future looks bright for Nyanza Region's schools. As Principal Makanda aptly put it, "At St Mary's Yala, we don't just aim for success-we aim for excellence in every aspect of our students' lives. And that's what makes us stand out."

St Mary's Yala excels on the field and in the classroom following KCSE success

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