The race to the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) national championships has officially begun, with regional rugby battles kicking off across the country.
Schools are vying for a place in the prestigious national event, set to take place in Shimo la Tewa, Coast Region, where the country’s finest young rugby talent will converge.
KSSSA defending champions All Saints from Embu face fierce competition as they attempt to retain their regional dominance.
Schools from Makueni, Marsabit, Machakos, Kitui, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, and Isiolo will challenge them in an effort to book their spot in the nationals. Expect high-intensity action as top talents battle for supremacy.
Nairobi: Capital’s Best Face Off
In Nairobi, a thrilling semifinal lineup awaits rugby fans Upper Hill vs. Dagoreti High – A high-stakes clash that promises fireworks. The Nairobi School (Patch) vs. Lenana School – A classic rivalry with a ticket to the nationals on the line. With Nairobi’s rugby giants locking horns, only the strongest will emerge victorious.
Western Region: The Rugby Powerhouse
Western Kenya, a hotbed of Kenyan rugby talent, hosts an intense tournament featuring powerhouse teams Musingu High – Fresh off a county semifinal win over Kakamega High. St. Peters, Mukinda, Kumusinde, Vihiga High, Kolanya, Bungoma, Senende – All hungry for glory.With such a competitive lineup, the Western Region promises some of the fiercest rugby battles.
Nyanza: Will Kisii High Dominate Again?
Kisii High, the reigning Nyanza champions, aim to defend their title against formidable rivals, including:
St. Mary’s Yala A rugby powerhouse known for producing stars like Lavin Asego and Oliver Mang’eni.
Gekano, Rapogi, Nyabondo, Anjego, Cardinal Otunga, and Agoro Sare – All determined to make their mark. Expect nothing short of explosive rugby action in Nyanza.
Central Region: Mangu High’s Title Defense
All eyes are on Mangu High School, the defending Central champions, after their dominant county final victory against Kiambu High. However, strong challengers from Nyandarua, Nyeri, Murang’a, and Kirinyaga will test their mettle. The region’s rugby-rich history guarantees a thrilling contest.
Rift Valley: The Largest Battlefield
With nearly twelve schools in contention, the Rift Valley championship is wide open ,St. Patrick’s Iten – Defending champions after edging Menengai High in a narrow 6-5 win. Kabianga, Bwake Boys, Kapsabet, Poroko, Longisa, Ortum, Lakeel, Katilu, AIC Chebisas, Baringo, and Ndururi – All in the hunt.
This unpredictable region is set for grueling encounters.
Coast Region: Hosts Eye National Glory
With the national championships set for Shimo la Tewa, Coastal teams have extra motivation to shine. Eight teams will battle for two national slots Marafa, Waa Boys, Tononoka, St. Mary’s Lushangonyi, Tarasaa, Malindi, Mwavumbo, Serani With home support behind them, the Coast sides will be aiming to impress on the big stage.
The Road to Shimo la Tewa Begins
With regional battles now underway, teams across Kenya are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for national glory. Skill, resilience, and determination will be tested as the country’s best young rugby players fight for a chance to compete at the biggest stage of school rugby.
Who will make it to Shimo la Tewa? Let the battles begin!
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