Hockey teams confident as Africa tourney starts
Kenya’s representatives to the Africa Club Hockey Championship which begins in Kampala from January 11 leave the country on Thursday.
Defending women’s champions Telkom Orange, Strathmore Scorpions, Nairobi Simba and Kenya Police have expressed confidence in bagging the titles at the continental event set to be held at Lugogo grounds.
Champions Telkom Orange will start as favourites as they hope to retain their trophy and according to Captain Betty Omalla, the team is in good shape to retain their title.
“We are going there with a lot of determination and focus of retaining our title, we know it will be difficult but I believe we have the players to do so”, Omalla told NairobiNews.
Telkom will face opposition from on form Ghanaian side, Custom Ladies as well as Egyptian side Shark HC Jos Openda.
On the other hand Strathmore will be making their second appearance at the event having made their debut in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe last year were they were knocked out in the group stages.
Coach Meshack Senge has retained almost the entire squad that played last year and is hopeful that his charges will improve.
“We are hoping to make into the medal bracket and hopefully win the event, but we know that it won’t be easy. We are prepared for any time”, Senge said.
Kenya Hockey Union champions Nairobi Simba and runners up Kenya Police are also in high spirit ahead of the event.
The games will run from January 11 – 18.