Itigo Girls High School from Nandi County reclaimed the Rift Valley secondary schools’ games rugby 15s girls title after thrashing defending champions St Joseph Girls High School of Kitale 19-0 in the final played at Narok Boys High School.
The victory marked sweet revenge for Itigo, who had lost to St Joseph Girls in last year’s regional final. The Nandi County side dominated the tournament from start to finish and completed their campaign without conceding a single point.
On their way to the title, Itigo had overwhelmed Nasokol Secondary School from West Pokot County 43-0 in the semi-finals, while St Joseph Girls defeated Iraa Girls from Kericho County 17-0 to book a place in the final.
Itigo Girls coach Dr Joakim Kelly attributed the success to a solid defence and a sharp attacking unit that proved too strong for their opponents throughout the competition.
“This was payback time for us after last year’s defeat. The girls remained focused, defended well and executed our attacking plans perfectly,” said Kelly.
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On her part, Chief Principal Juliah Samoei hailed the team for their historic achievement, describing the Rift Valley title as the result of hard work, discipline and determination demonstrated by the players throughout the season.
“I am extremely proud of our girls for emerging as Rift Valley champions. This victory did not come by chance. It is the result of months of sacrifice, commitment, discipline and teamwork. The girls remained focused on their goal and showed great courage and resilience in every match they played,” said Samoei.
She noted that the team’s unbeaten run and ability to win the tournament without conceding a point highlighted their preparedness and dedication to excellence.
“Our players trained tirelessly and remained committed even when the training sessions were demanding. Their determination, discipline and belief in themselves enabled them to overcome every challenge and eventually reclaim the regional title. They have proved that hard work always pays,” she said.
Samoei also paid tribute to the coaching staff led by Dr Joakim Kelly for their professionalism and commitment in nurturing the players.
“I wish to sincerely thank our coaching team, led by Dr Joakim Kelly, for their outstanding leadership and dedication. Their technical guidance, mentorship and sacrifices played a significant role in this success. They have worked tirelessly to ensure the girls achieve their full potential both on and off the field,” she added.
The principal further said the victory had brought honour to the school and would inspire many young girls to pursue their sporting dreams.
“This triumph has not only brought pride to our school but has also shown that girls can excel in sports when given the right support and opportunities. Our champions have become role models to many young girls across the region. We now shift our focus to the national championships, where we hope to continue making history and flying the school’s flag high,” said Samoei.
In the boys’ rugby 15s final, reigning champions Laiser Hill Academy from Kajiado County retained their crown after whitewashing perennial rivals St Anthony’s Boys High School from Trans Nzoia County 20-0.
Meanwhile, the girls’ football final will pit former regional champions St Joseph Girls against regional reigning champions Nasokol from West Pokot County.
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St Joseph Girls secured a convincing 5-0 victory over Kericho Day Secondary School. Miriam Silali scored twice, while Purity Nechesa, Conny Ayieko and Pearl Olesi added a goal each.
Nasokol defeated 6-5 on penalties after a 2-2 draw.
In girls’ volleyball, Rift Valley champions Kesogon Mixed Secondary School from Trans Nzoia County will face perennial rivals AIC Kosirai Secondary School from Nandi County in the final.
Kesogon cruised to a 3-0 victory over Nyiro Secondary School from Samburu County in the semi-finals, while AIC Kosirai registered a similar 3-0 win over Annet Secondary School of West Pokot to set up the title showdown.
By Jeff Kirui
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