As the South Rift Secondary Schools County Games concluded last weekend, attention now shifts to the Rift Valley Regional Championships, set to take place this week in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.

Ahead of the anticipated weekend action, schools from Bomet and Narok counties are intensifying their preparations, eager to make their mark at the regional stage and secure spots in the next phase of the competition.

Team tacticians are fine-tuning their squads, addressing weaknesses, and instilling confidence as they gear up for the challenge.

In Bomet County, Siwot Secondary School, the reigning handball champions, along with Kapkesosio Secondary School (hockey girls) and Kiriba Secondary School (hockey boys), are ready to make a statement.

Siwot, who successfully defended their title by beating Kaplong Boys High School 27-21, have their eyes firmly set on national qualification.

Coach Zephania Mibei is confident that his team’s experience and tactical discipline will give them an edge.

“We know that many of the bigger teams underestimate us, and we plan to use that to our advantage,” said Mibei.

However, he also warned his players against overconfidence, reminding them that every opponent must be taken seriously.

Principal David Koech emphasised that the team’s consecutive victories have fueled their ambition.

“We are entering the competition with one goal; to win. No team should be taken lightly,” said Koech.

At Kapkesosio Secondary School, enthusiasm is running high despite the team’s humble training conditions.

The school principal Bevon Monda was actively involved in motivating the team, reinforcing the importance of mental toughness and discipline.

“Our success has been built on discipline and teamwork. We believe anything is possible, and we’re ready to fight for a place at the nationals,” said Monda.

Kapkesosio clinched their regional qualification after topping the round-robin standings with seven points, edging out Lorna Laboso Girls Secondary School on goal difference.

Meanwhile, Kiriba Secondary School has made history by qualifying for the regional stage for the first time. Their breakthrough came after an impressive 3-1 victory over hosts Mulot.

Coach Felix Cheruiyot expressed his pride in the team’s achievement and is upbeat about their performance at the regional games.

“Winning the county title was a big moment for us, but we are not stopping there. The team is highly motivated and ready for the next challenge,” noted Cheruiyot.

As these determined schools head to Eldoret, they carry the hopes of their respective counties, eager to prove they belong among the region’s best.