School games: Ng'iya Girls ready to defend Siaya County basketball crown
Basketball
By
Washington Onyango
| Mar 04, 2025
Defending champions Ng'iya Girls will be out to retain their basketball girls' title when the Siaya County Secondary School Term One Games begin on Wednesday.
The three-day championship will be co-hosted by Wagwer Secondary School, Nyagondo Mixed Secondary School, and Ng'iya Girls High School.
Ng'iya Girls stunned perennial basketball powerhouse Barchando 32-19 last year to lift their maiden county title, securing a historic regional finals qualification after a decade-long wait.
This year, the Naftali Ambala-coached side is determined to defend their crown as they take on Lwak, Aluor, and Nyawara in Group A.
"Our preparations have been intense, and the girls are ready to give their best," said Ambala.
"Winning the title last year was a major achievement, but defending it will be an even bigger challenge. The competition is stiff, but we are focusing on playing our game and ensuring we qualify for the next stage."
In Group B, former champions Barchando headline the pool and they will face off against Rangala Girls, Usinda, and Mbaga Girls.
Meanwhile, in hockey girls, former East Africa and national champions Nyamira Girls will be aiming to extend their decade-long dominance at the county level. They will face Nyawara and Mbaga in Group A.
In Group B, last year's runners-up, Ng'iya Girls, will take on Lwak and Sinaga as they seek to dethrone Nyamira.
"Our objective is clear - we want to challenge for the title and earn a spot at the regionals," said Ng'iya Girls hockey coach Edwin Ogony. "Nyamira has been a dominant force, but we believe we have what it takes to compete at their level."
Siaya County Secondary School Sports Association chairman Ngala Mbuor assured that preparations for the games were complete, with security and talent development being key priorities.
"We have put measures in place to ensure the safety of all students and officials. Beyond competition, our goal is to nurture young talent and provide a platform for our students to shine at higher levels," said Mbuor.