The vibrant community of Emsoo Ward in Elgeyo Marakwet County erupted in cheers this past weekend as the annual Emsoo ward football tournament concluded with a dramatic penalty shootout, crowning Kabulwo FC from Kerio Valley as this year’s champions.
In a nail-biting final that had fans on the edge of their seats at Chegilet Primary School, Kabulwo FC emerged victorious over Kapchelal FC with a 3-2 scoreline in the shootout after a fiercely contested match.
Earlier in the day, Chegilet FC secured the third-place spot, comfortably defeating Kokwao FC 2-0.
The women’s category also delivered exciting football, with Kaptum FC claiming the top honors after a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Chegilet Women FC. Salaba FC and Kabulwo FC secured third and fourth positions, respectively, showcasing the growing talent in women’s football within the ward.
Volleyball enthusiasts also had their share of action, with Kibendo volleyball team dominating Kabulwo, triumphing 3 sets to 1 to be crowned champions.
The winning teams were handsomely rewarded for their efforts. Kabulwo FC took home a significant KSh 80,000, while Kapchelal received KSh 60,000.
Chegilet and Kokwao were awarded KSh 40,000 and KSh 25,000 respectively. In the women’s competition, Kaptum received KSh 65,000, Chegilet KSh 48,000, and Salaba and Kabulwo each took KSh 14,000.
Area MCA Christopher Cheboiboch expressed his unwavering commitment to supporting youth sports in the ward. He pledged to actively engage with major football clubs, advocating for the recruitment of talented youth from Emsoo to serve as inspirational role models.
The MCA also promised to seek out sponsors to provide essential kitting, including playing shoes, for the teams. He used the platform to urge the youth to steer clear of societal vices such as drug and substance abuse, and gambling, which he warned were detrimental to their futures.
Yusuf Kipchumba, the team manager for champions Kabulwo FC, echoed the calls for greater support, urging the government to invest in improving grassroots sports grounds.
He specifically appealed to the County Governor to consider including volleyball in the popular ‘Gavana wa Raia’ tournament, highlighting the need for broader recognition of various sports disciplines.
The successful tournament underscores the rich sporting potential within Emsoo Ward, promising a bright future for its young athletes.
