- Oyugis Youths Church and Sports Ministry has partnered with Kisii University and local communities to promote the Gospel through sports.
- More than 40 grassroots football coaches graduated after undergoing training in coaching, player management and talent development.
- Organisers say the initiative aims to nurture youth talent while promoting Christian values, unity and education.
The church has partnered with local communities and Kisii University to promote the Gospel through sports as part of efforts to nurture young people and transform communities.
Maurice Ouko, founder of the Oyugis Youths Church and Sports Ministry, said the initiative seeks to use sports as a platform to reach young people while instilling Christian values and supporting education.
Speaking during the graduation of grassroots football coaches at Kisii University, Ouko said the organisation has mentored many young people into successful careers and higher education since its establishment in 2002.
The coaching workshop brought together more than 40 football coaches from Kisii, Nyamira and Homa Bay counties.
Kenya Jump Rope Federation President Lydiah Aswan interacts with fellow trainers following a coaches’ training session at Kisii University.Training was facilitated by officials from Teshi Academy, Shabana Junior FC coach Ali Juma and football scout FC Netron HP-Kenya.
Participants received training in football coaching, player placement, team selection, emotional intelligence and sports psychology.
Ouko said the programme aims to encourage youth talent while promoting Christian principles of respect for life, resilience, teamwork and responsible citizenship.
Building communities through sport
Teshi Academy’s Dr. Donald Ratemo (pictured below) said the initiative would strengthen youth talent development while helping bridge the gap between young people and older members of society.
The graduation ceremony was attended by Jump Rope Association of Kenya President Lydiah Aswan.
Organisers also announced the launch of a football tournament involving both men’s and women’s teams from Kisii, Nyamira and Homa Bay counties.
Each participating team will receive two sets of playing jerseys, a football and a tracksuit for the coach.
According to Ouko, the tournament will provide another platform for evangelism, youth empowerment and community transformation through sport.
He noted that sports play an important role in promoting employment, unity and friendship among communities.
The competition will be held at the Kisii University playgrounds from Thursday to Saturday, with winners in each pool receiving trophies.
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Pool A comprises Tour Warriors, Hema Moja, Riamoni and Kerina FC, while Pool B features Gucha Youth, Global Connectors, Nyaronge Stars and Riomoro.
The girls’ category includes Kemera Starlets, Geke and Sinai.
By Enock Okong’o
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