Madira Girls ready to assassinate their opponents in Rwanda

Madira Girls High School players pose for a group photo before their KSSSA match in Kakamega. [Courtesy]

In a resounding testament to their prowess on the football pitch, the Madira Girls High School football team is setting its sights on victory as they prepare to take on their opponents at the Federation of East Africa Secondary School Sports Association (FEASSSA) in Rwanda.

The highly anticipated tournament to be hosted in Huye, will bring together the finest football talents from across the East African region, including champions from Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda.

Undaunted by the challenge, Madira Girls who are commonly referred to as ‘The Assassins’ are strategically planning to showcase their skills, teamwork, and determination, with their eyes firmly fixed on the prestigious gold medal.

As the journey to the FEASSSA finals begins, Madira are leaving no stone unturned ahead of Saturday’s kick-off.

The team’s coaching staff, led by Nick Maleri, a seasoned tactician with a proven track record, has implemented a comprehensive strategy aimed at exploiting opponents’ weaknesses while capitalising on Madira’s strengths.

Despite the two-day long road journey from Kenya to Rwanda through Uganda, Maleri believes glory demands mental fortitude as well as physical prowess.

Madira Girls’ coaching staff recognises the significance of psychological preparedness in high-stake competitions.

Maleri said they are engaging in specialised mental conditioning sessions, equipping players with strategies to maintain focus under pressure, overcome setbacks, and maintain a winning mentality.

“Facing the challenge of preparing for the FEASSSA football girls’ finals in just two days, with the added hurdle of a long road trip from Kenya to Rwanda, our approach is one of focused intensity,” said Maleri.

“We believe that true preparation goes beyond time constraints. Our team at Madira is embracing this unique situation as an opportunity to showcase our adaptability and resilience.

“While the road trip poses its own set of challenges, it has fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among the players, turning the journey itself into a valuable bonding experience. Our goal is to arrive at the venue a day before kick-off with our spirits high and our determination unwavering.”

Madira chairman Dr Fredrick Mavisi said one of the cornerstones of the school’s success lies in their unwavering team spirit. The players share a unique camaraderie that translates into seamless coordination on the pitch.

“Beyond their personal aspirations, the team carries the hopes and dreams of their school and community. Madira Girls’ success story is a source of inspiration for aspiring female athletes, proving that with determination, grit, and unwavering support, they too can achieve greatness.

“The team’s journey to the FEASSSA finals serves as a rallying cry for gender equality in sports and highlights the immense potential of young women in the realm of athletics,” said Mavisi.

Their rigorous training sessions are characterised not only by intense physical drills but also by a supportive and motivating environment that fosters unity and mutual respect. This solidarity is a potent weapon that Madira intend to wield effectively against their rivals in Huye.

While the competition will undoubtedly be fierce, Madira are undeterred by the challenge of facing off against formidable champions from Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda.

Pooled alongside Ugandan champions Kawempe Muslim, local champions Butere Girls, hosts GS Gatizo, St Noa Girls from Uganda, and Ziba Secondary from Tanzania in Group A, Madira believes their fitness will be key.

Madira have been playing in the FKF Women’s Division One League and last month rewrote history as the first school team to gain promotion to the 2023-2024 Kenya Women’s Premier League.

Led by lethal striker Valerie Nekesa who scored a whopping 22 goals on their road to gaining promotion to the Premier League, Madira will be a team to watch.

Wiyeta Girls from Rift Valley are in Group B together with Fountain Gate (Tanzania), Sacred Heart Gulu and Amus College School (Uganda).