- Totum Comprehensive School from West Pokot County reclaimed the Rift Valley JSS Girls’ Football crown after edging Hill School of Uasin Gishu 4–2 on penalties following a tense 1–1 draw.
- Totum now prepares to represent Rift Valley at the National Championships in Thika with hopes of qualifying for the East Africa Games.
Totum Comprehensive School from West Pokot County has once again stamped its authority in junior secondary school football after being crowned the 2026 Rift Valley JSS Girls’ Football Champions. The side edged Hill School of Uasin Gishu 4-2 on penalties in Nakuru following a tense 1–1 draw in regulation time, reclaiming the regional crown before hundreds of fans
The victory means Totum Mixed will represent the Rift Valley Region at the upcoming National Championships in Thika, with hopes of progressing to the East Africa Games as they did last year. For the West Pokot side, the triumph was not only a sporting milestone but also a moment of pride for the county, whose residents celebrated jubilantly both at the venue and back home through phone calls and social media messages.
Head coach Mildred Yaraita attributed the success to early preparation and discipline at the school level. “The preparation of the team started early enough, which enabled us to climb the ladder until we successfully reached the finals,” she said. Yaraita also praised her technical bench, led by assistant coach Joseph Mirimo Musungu, for providing crucial tactical guidance that sharpened the players’ skills.
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Totum’s journey to the title was marked by resilience and dominance. In the opening match, they overcame Narok County 1–0. They then hammered Laikipia 6–2 before dispatching neighbours Elgeyo Marakwet 3–1. The final against Hill School proved the toughest test, ending in a stalemate before Totum held their nerve in the shootout.
Key contributions came from top scorers Stenly Atieno and Venesa Tata, who combined effectively with teammates to ensure victory. Their coordination and finishing power proved decisive in the campaign, reinforcing Totum’s reputation as one of the most formidable girls’ football teams in the region.
As defending champions, lifting the Rift Valley trophy once again was a sweet moment for the players, coaches and supporters. The West Pokot cheering squad poured onto the field in celebration, while back home, residents expressed pride in the team’s achievement.
Totum now turns its focus to the National Championships in Thika. The squad’s main expectation is to replicate last year’s success and qualify for the East Africa Games, a stage where they hope to showcase their talent against the best from across the region.
By Martin Ruto
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