Newbies Nyabeda Mixed Secondary School rugby girls team are upbeat ahead of the 2025 Siaya County Secondary School term two games that kick off on Thursday at St Mary’s School Yala.

The team’s head coach, Kenneth Mukok, who previously coached Yala’s giants for over 20 years, is relishing his new journey after helping the school qualify for the county games for the first time.

“This is more than a coaching job—it’s a mission. We are building something special at Nyabeda, and making the county finals in girls’ rugby in just our first season shows the potential here,” Mukok said, who doubles as the Deputy Principal.

Nyabeda, in Group B, faces a stern test with defending champions Sidindi, as well as Usinda, Lwak, Got Oyenga, and Bondo Township, all lined up for a gritty showdown. Group A features Nyakongo, Mbaga, Sirembe, Nyamira, Sinaga, and Nyamonye—a balanced group that promises surprises.

Mukok said the support he has received from working together with Principal Edward Ogalo has borne fruit as they target regionals.

“We started small and now we are rising. The journey is still beginning, and despite being months old, I believe the girls can get to the regionals. The support from the principal has been massive, and we will aim higher,” said Mukok.

With age cheating always a concern at this stage, Siaya County Secondary School Sports Association (SCSSSA) chairman Ngala Mbuor reaffirmed their vigilance:

“We’ve implemented a strict verification system using thorough checks. We’re confident this year’s finals will be fair and transparent.”

“As the whistle blows on day one, both seasoned powerhouses and rising challengers have everything to play for. The road to national glory begins now—with history, pride, and dreams all on the line,” said Ngala, who also doubles as Nyanza Region.