Goalball stakeholders back the sport to make a splash in Kenya

Kenya Sports Association for the Visually Impaired president Charles Waitherero has tipped goalball to make a splash in the country and called on the government to invest in the sport if the country is to take the game to the next level.

Waitherero spoke on Wednesday after watching Kenya’s women goalball team defeat Pakistan 9-7 in the ongoing goalball tournament in Thika Town, Kiambu County.

The goalball boss said Kenya has demonstrated her prowess and potential in the sport calling on the government to put up structures to grow the sport which is designed for the visually impaired persons.

“I challenge the government and the private sector to invest in constructing and upgrading facilities to provide a conducive environment for training and competitions. Such investments would not only benefit goalball but also other sports for the visually impaired,” he highlighted.

This marked the first occasion the Pakistani women’s team played outside their home country, and the friendly matches are doubling up as a platform to foster international relations between the two countries.

Kenya’s team captain Everlyne Kalunda expressed confidence in her team's abilities, adding that the federation should embark on a nationwide campaign to popularise the sport in the country.

“We are talented but if we are not well supported, then our performance will drop and our morale will be killed.’’

Her call to action extended to other visually impaired individuals, encouraging them to participate in various sports and explore their potential.

The Pakistani head coach Shehzad Javed commended the Kenyan team, acknowledging their skill and competitive spirit. He noted that Kenya has the potential to compete on an international level, given their current performance and dedication.

“Both teams look like they are on the same level and I believe in the future, the two teams will become better and challenge other countries in higher levels,” he said.

For the Pakistani players, this tour was a momentous step in their sporting careers and playing in an international setting provided them with invaluable experience and exposure to different playing styles and strategies.

The final whistle in the series of friendly matches will be blown on Friday, where the Pakistani ambassador to Kenya will award the winners.