School Games officials told to remain fair, professional as regionals kick off

Western Region Secondary Schools Sports Association (WRSSSA) chairman Martin Wasua said poor officiating hinders talent growth and was the main cause of upheavals witnessed during school championships.

Wasua, who spoke Wednesday after he officially opened the Western region games at Nyang’ori Boys High School in Vihiga, also urged teachers to take up school sport seriously as it acts as a production line for Kenya’s next stars.

“I want to emphasize the issue of discipline, integrity, hard work and commitment. Our judges must understand that it is the love of the children that has brought us here and not making money through unfair calls from the referees. Let us enjoy the games,” said Wasua.

The official also warned teachers against fielding ineligible players in their teams saying Kenya Secondary Schools Sport Association (KSSSA) would come down hard on schools engaged in age cheating.

Nyang’ori Boys High School will play host to hockey, athletics, handball, basketball 5x5, swimming, rugby 15s and handball disciplines during the three-day event.

However, Rugby competitions have been taken to Chavakali High School. Ivona Primary will be the venue for handball games. Swimming competitions will continue at Mudasa Academy as Mbihi Girls and Kegoye Secondary will host girls and boys hockey teams respectively.

Vihiga KUPPET executive secretary Sabala Inyeni exuded confidence that Vihiga was up to the task of hosting western region games asking teams from other parts western to brace themselves for tough challenges from Vihiga teams.

“I want to urge the Western regional education director to ensure that coaches and referees are paid their dues on time to avoid inconveniences after competitions. Let’s also compete with high levels of disciplines.”

In a curtain raising match, Western region basketball 5x5 defending champions Butere Girls edged former national champions Tigoi Girls 48-40.

Despite the loss, Tigoi assistant coach Caroline Lusigi was bullish that this time round her charges would pull an upset against their nemesis Butere and proceed to the national stage to be held at Machakos School.

“We have discovered that it is possible to beat Butere were it not for the knee injuries my two players had. I assure the Tigers’ fans that this is the only game we are losing this season,” she assured.

Eastern, Coast and Nyanza regions are also holding their games this week to select teams for the national stage set for Machakos School next week.