Kenyan Hockey Clubs Battle for Africa Titles
Kenyan hockey clubs are gearing up to compete for the African Cup for Club Hockey Champions titles in Malawi. Former champions Blazers and Lakers Hockey Club are leading Kenya’s title hopes in the women’s category, while Western Jaguars will be Kenya’s sole representative in the men’s competition.
The Journey to Malawi
The road trip to Malawi has left the players travel-weary, with swollen legs and the challenge of playing on unfamiliar sand-based artificial turf. Despite these obstacles, the teams are determined to bring the titles home as the event kicks off at the National Hockey Stadium in Blantyre, Malawi.
Team Arrivals
Lakers and Western Jaguars made the road trip to Malawi, arriving on Friday after leaving the country earlier in the week. Blazers, on the other hand, flew out on Thursday, thanks to the facilitation of their trip by the Ministry of Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba.
Challenges Faced
Jaguars Team Manager Peter Okova confirmed that the players had suffered swollen legs and were hoping to recover in time for their opening match on Sunday. Despite the challenges, the teams remain optimistic and focused on their goal of winning the tournament.
Jaguars’ Journey
Jaguars, making their second appearance in the event, have been pooled in Group ‘B’ together with teams from Malawi and Nigeria. Their schedule includes matches against Police Machine, Scorpions, and Parachute Battalion.
Lakers’ Determination
Lakers team manager John Paul expressed the team’s determination, stating that the road trip will not deter them from competing for the trophy. They are set to face tough competition from teams in Pool ‘A’, including Scorpions, Genetrix, and Delta Queens.
Blazers’ Confidence
Blazers, formerly Telkom, acknowledge the challenges of playing on the sand astro turf but remain confident in their ability to reclaim the title. Team manager Jane Nyamogo emphasized the team’s readiness to face Kada Queens from Nigeria and expressed optimism about their chances in the tournament.
The Competition
The teams are prepared to face tough competition, with Blazers in Pool ‘B’ alongside Capital Braves of Malawi and defending champions GRA. The top two teams in each pool will secure a spot in the semi-finals, adding to the anticipation and excitement of the tournament.