The Nairobi County youth should brace themselves for a busy sports calendar this year.
Reuben Ndoolo speak to Captain U14 of Makadara team Makaisi Odhiambo during the finals at Kaloleni grounds on Sunday, February, 01st, 2015. PHOTO/JONAH ONYANGO
The county has lined up a ace a series of junior tournaments in different sports disciplines throughout 2015, according to former Kenya Professional Boxing Commission patron Reuben Ndolo.
Ndolo told FeverPitch that he is targeting players below the age of 17 years because that is where talent is and these talents can only be utilised if they are identified early. “The future of Kenyan sports is in young people, that is why we have to invest in them and identify them early so they can be nurtured.”
He also said that through sports, the children will become responsible individuals: “Discipline starts at tender age, through sports our children will learn and grow to be responsible,” he said.
Ndolo was speaking at the S-Base grounds in Kaloleni during an under-10 and 14 football tournament which attracted a total of 11 teams, five in the 14 years and six in the 10 years categories. Hosts Kaloleni lifted trophies in both categories.
BARREN DRAW
Kaloleni B beat Makadara 3-2 in post-match penalties after the match ended in a barren draw to be crowned the under-14 champions. They had earlier sent their A side packing with a 5-4 victory in penalties to book a finals date with Makadara who had earlier on dismissed Masaa by the same margin.
In the under-10 contest, Kaloleni junior players edged visitors Amazon from neighbouring Makongeni 3-2 in penalties after the match ended in a goalless draw in regular time. Kaloleni had triumphed 3-1 against Masaa while Amazon saw off Makadara 3-2.
Ndolo appealed to leaders in other counties to organise sports activities for children as this will help in tapping talent. “Leaders from other counties should follow suit and organise such events, Kenya is a sporting country and we have talent especially in rural areas, we need tournaments so this children can showcase their talent.”
He also urged the government to revive youth centres to give deserving players an opportunity. In addition to football the youth also took part in boxing for the novices, netball and handball at the weekend.
By Elizabeth Mburugu, The Standard