Africa-Press – Kenya. Two-time FEASSA Games champions St Joseph’s Girls Kitale head into the national championships with renewed belief, as head coach John Lusaka backs his side to mount a strong title push.
JOGA, as the team is popularly known, fell just short last year, losing 3-2 to archrivals Tigoi Girls in a thrilling final held at Shanzu Teachers Training College. But Lusaka believes this year’s squad is better equipped ahead of the April 5 championships in Kisumu.
“We have lost in two finals, but we have picked up vital lessons and corrected our mistakes. This year, we are going for the national trophy because we have adequately prepared since last year,” said Lusaka.
The tactician, who also serves as the school’s games master, noted that squad depth could be their biggest strength. “This year, we don’t have standout players. The whole team is at the same level, including substitutes, which is an advantage to us,” he added.
JOGA face a tough test in Pool ‘B’, where they are drawn against former champions Nyamira Girls, holders Tigoi Girls, and St Charles Lwanga.
“It’s a good draw with very strong teams. We have faced all of them before and understand their DNA. Our target is to win all matches and top the pool,” Lusaka said. Pool ‘A’ features Ng’iya Girls, MPesa Academy, Mwiki Girls and AIC Nyayo Girls.
Lusaka also praised the principal, Rosebella Orwaru, for her unwavering support of co-curricular activities. “She ensures teams are well-equipped and is always present to motivate the girls,” he said.
JOGA head into the nationals in dominant form after clinching a fourth straight Rift Valley title, thrashing St Mary’s Tachasis 7-0 in the final in Nakuru. They also cruised past Sing’ore Girls 8-0 in the semifinals. The team scored an impressive 58 goals during the regional championships, with Valarie Imisa netting 35.
“We didn’t have an easy ride. Tachasis were strong, and we only led 1-0 before breaking them down in the later quarters,” Lusaka noted. Drawing inspiration from scripture, Lusaka added: “We believe in Judges 6:12—‘The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.’ That is who we are.”
