Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) football defending champions, Butere Girls’, head coach Edwin Sakwa, is confident that the team will successfully defend their title in this year’s games.They are aiming for their third national title and a strong performance in the Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Association (FEASSSA) Term Two games.##NAJAVA_MECA_8213885##The determined team started their campaign strongly by defeating county champions Archbishop Njenga 2-0, courtesy of a brace by Patience Atieno. They aim to maintain this momentum as they prepare for the regional games next week.Speaking after their victory, coach Sakwa emphasized their thorough preparation for the title defense. He highlighted that their preparations extended beyond the field.“We are focused on retaining our national trophy and, hopefully, winning the East African title. Our preparation has been top-class. We have prioritized maintaining the players’ fitness levels and exposed them to tough competition against FKF Premier League sides like Vihiga United, Bungoma Queens, Wadadia, and other top teams,” Sakwa stated.He continued, “Additionally, we have implemented a nutritious feeding program, including fresh farm produce, high-fiber starch, traditional vegetables, and porridge to ensure peak performance. We also incorporate spiritual activities, pastoral work, and weekly mentorship and life skills programs for the players.”Ex-Harambee Stars defender warns against complacency in AFCON qualifiersWhen asked about their dominance in Western region girls’ football, Sakwa attributed it to divine support, a supportive principal, and the players’ strong motivation for success.“I credit our success to God. These players are like my congregation, and I feel accountable to God for them. We have an incredibly supportive principal, Madam Jeniffer Omondi, and our recruitment standards ensure that only top academic performers, with at least 350 marks, join the team. Our training regimen is also world-class,” he affirmed.The school has produced notable football talents like Marjolen Nekesa, a midfielder/striker for Czech Women’s First League club Slavia Prague, Judith Muthoni, and Lilian Manje, who have all represented the country internationally.“We don’t train solely to win trophies but to improve our athletes’ lives. Through sports, they access education, which enhances their future prospects. When we prioritize these aspects, trophies naturally follow,” Sakwa concluded.Former AFC Leopards midfielder targeting return to club football next season
