Stage set as rivals clash in Rift Valley and Central ties

Handball action between Forest Hill Secondary School and Koelel Secondary School, in Nakuru. [Harun Wathari, Standard]

Nakuru County basketball champions Stafford Boys have sounded a warning to opponents ahead of the Rift Valley Secondary Schools Games that begin today (September 2, 2022).

Stafford, who are newcomers in the regional championships, are keen on emulating top teams that sprung from unknown to become national champions.

"That is where we are headed. We are determined to win the regional title before turning our focus on national championships," said Stafford Boys Games director Gidraph Mwangi.

It will not be a walk in the park for Stafford, however, as they are expected to face stiff opposition from schools from the North Rift, led by St Patrick's Iten.

Rift Valley Secondary Schools Sports Association Secretary General Kirwa Koech said they were rushing against time to come up with the fixtures for the whole program, which was expected to be ready by last evening.

"It's is not easy to come up with a comprehensive program for the whole exercise due to a congested schools calendar," Kirwa said.

And as the Rift Games begin, the Central Kenya championships are set to start tomorrow at Thika High School and Mount Kenya University.

Central Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association spokesperson Virginia Murage said the region has several newcomers after historical big names fell by the wayside at the county games.

"These games will be very tricky in all quarters. Th newcomers can continue shocking many teams at this level," she said.

Some of the big teams missing in action include former basketball champions Mang'u High and Nyeri Baptist, as well as former handball champions Gatarakwa Girls from Nyeri, Matigo Boys and St Ann Girls.