Speaking during the official opening ceremony, Makueni County Director of Education Lydia Mutegi commended principals, coaches, referees, and players for their commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring the success of the games.
Addressing the students, Mutegi emphasized the importance of integrity and respect in sports, urging participants to compete honorably and adhere to the rules of the game.
“A true winner wins with honour. This is more than just a competition; it is an opportunity to showcase your abilities. Let there be fairness in every match. Respect your opponents, the referees, and the game itself, remembering that at the end of the day, we remain students and learners of Makueni,” she said.
Mutegi challenged teachers to continue supporting learners in developing their talents beyond the county level, while encouraging players to accept results with humility and view every victory or defeat as a learning opportunity.
“Whether you win or lose, learn something from the experience because we are all champions. Coaches should ensure their teams are where they are supposed to be, while referees should allow the best team to emerge victorious,” she added.
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Teachers Service Commission (TSC) County Director John Paul Wepoghe also called for fair competition and urged students to take sports seriously, noting that athletics and other sporting disciplines offer opportunities for personal growth and career success.
“Make the most of this opportunity and strive to reach the highest level. Some of the world’s most successful people are athletes. Compete well, represent Makueni with pride, and remember that after the games we remain one community,” said Wepoghe.
Makueni County Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KESSHA) Chairman Johnstone Ndivo, who is also the Chief Principal of Maitiku Boys High School, encouraged school administrators and teachers to continue nurturing learners’ talents.
Ndivo revealed that Makueni County will host this year’s regional music and ball games festivals, expressing confidence in the county’s preparedness to successfully organize both events.
“We are honoured to host the regional competitions and are fully prepared for the responsibility. We look forward to welcoming participants from across the region,” he said.
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He further assured participants that adequate arrangements had been made to ensure the smooth running of the games, while warning against any form of indiscipline.
Host Principal Francis Mutua welcomed teams and officials to Makueni Boys High School and expressed optimism that the four-day event would achieve its objectives.
“I appeal to referees and match officials to perform their duties professionally and fairly. We hope the games will be free of disputes and that every team and player will be treated equally,” said Mutua.
The four-day competition brings together schools from across Makueni County to compete in various sporting disciplines, with winners expected to advance to the regional level.
By Lydia Ngoolo
