Langata seek return to national games

Bismarck Kiptoo (centre) of Hospital Hill School spikes against Benard Mike (left) and Morgan Kiplimo of Moi Forces Academy. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Nairobi Region secondary school boys' volleyball champions Langata High are hoping to make a return to the Kenya secondary school Term Two games set for next month in Kisumu.

Langata will launch their regional title defence on Friday at Eastleigh High School with the aim of ensuring they make their second appearance at the national show.

They will be up against 21 other schools that will also be eying the city title.

Last year, Langata ended Hospital Hill’s city rule to bag the lone ticket to the national extravaganza.

They, however, fell short at the nationals finishing fifth while Malava, who will miss this year’s competition after failing to qualify for the Western Region games, were crowned champions.

Langata coach Francis Mwangi, who is also the man behind Hospital Hill’s previous success, said he was focusing on qualifying for the national games. “Competition is very stiff at the lower level, many of last year’s successful teams have already been bundled out hence the need to remain focused on the task at hand. We have to be at our best because if we overcome the regional hurdle then we can strategize for the national games,” Mwangi said.

Mwangi added that while all teams are potential winners, 2013 national champions Hospital Hill, Uhuru Secondary and Ruthimitu Mixed are a major threat to their ambitions. “We played Hospital Hill in a tournament and beat them but that will count for nothing because this will be a different competition and they will also be looking to avenge their loss.”

Meanwhile, badminton powerhouse Oshwal Academy will be looking to reclaim their top spot after faltering last year. Team coach Martin Kanyange said that his charges are ready for this year’s challenge. “The girls have prepared very well and are ready for this year’s challenge. We are eying more medals at both the regional and national games.”

National silver medalist Theertha Vannemreddy will be looking to retain her regional gold while Meer Solanki and Bhavwy Shah will also be out to stage brilliant performances.