Maseno University Open: Ebwali, Kisii Polytechnic Among Rivals To Watch
MASENO, Kenya- East Africa School Games football powerhouse Ebwali Secondary are among the forces to reckon with in the eighth edition of Maseno University Open Tournament to be held at the varsity main campus in Maseno this weekend.
Ebwali will battle among others the host side, christened Siringisi, who are in top form following an incredible comeback to thrash perennial rivals Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology at the Regional Universities Games last weekend.
“Maseno are in great form, they are banking on that to deny other sides the glittering cup,” Tournament Director Joan Adalo told Standard Sports.
Other sides sharpening their claws for the elusive football trophy are St. Anthony Boys Secondary, Goseta Boys High school, Masaba FC, Kisii Polytechnic, Alupe University, Maseno School, Catholic University Gaba Campus and the United States International University- Africa.
Local teams also set to feature in football at the annual tournament are Venom FC, SC Maseno Homeboys and the Coast Stars FC.
“With less than four days to go, the organizers are working round the clock to make the event a success.
“We assure the over 1000 participants from the universities, high schools, local and the league teams of nerve cracking matches and generally an overall good tournament.
“Given the hot temperatures, participants are advised to keep themselves well hydrated before, during and after the championship,” Adalo underlined.
Apart from football, other disciplines to be contested in the weekend showpiece are netball, handball, basketball, volleyball, hockey, chess and badminton.
Since its inception in 2015, the tournament has grown in leaps and bounds, improving in entries, quality of games, logistics and the attendance aggregate.
The objective of the annual tournament is to develop a sporting culture that focuses on recreation.
“Our aim is to create awareness about the learning institutions, expose their talents and help establish cordial relationships with the surrounding communities,” says Adalo.
Some of the notable talents that have been churned out from the competition include Timothy Ekhavi, a Maseno University third year student that is currently featuring for Kariobangi Sharks FC in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League.
Others are Emmanuel Juma playing for Luanda Villa FC in the FKF regional tier league and a Maseno University alumni Samuel ‘Wizzy’ Omolo currently playing for Kisumu All Stars FC in the FKF National Super League.
