By KPC Sports Reporter
Kenyatta University (KU), Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and Zetech University dominated the Kenya Universities Sports Federation (KUSF) Women Championships at Taita Taveta University grounds in Voi.
The victories added colour to the celebrations marking International Women’s Day during the three-day tournament.
After finishing second last year behind Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), KU bounced back strongly to win the football title.
The team defeated the University of Eldoret (UOE) in the final.
Sheila Juma and Hope Wandera scored a goal in each half to guide KU to a comfortable 2–0 victory.
KU remained unbeaten throughout the championship.
The two teams had earlier met during the tough Pool A matches.
KU head coach Joseph Ndung’u praised his players for their determination and resilience.
“The journey has been very good because we prepared well before the championships. The players have shown character since we arrived,” said Ndung’u.
He said the victory was special after losing last year’s title.
“We thank God for the win because it has been a difficult journey. We lost the title last year but now we are champions,” he said.
“We have not lost any match in the tournament. I thank my players, the management, the hosts and KUSF for supporting women’s sports.”
UOE head coach Josphat Pilishi said reaching the final was a milestone since he took over the team in 2019.
“For the first time we reached the national finals and I am glad. The players gave their best and it is a great moment for me as a coach,” said Pilishi.
He noted that fatigue affected the team in the final.
“We were in a tough pool but still reached the semifinals. We beat Chuka University 2–1 after trailing 1–0. By the time we reached the final, the team was very tired,” he said.
In the Thika Road derby, JKUAT edged out neighbours KU 2–1 to win the hockey title.
Despite KU being last year’s finalists and favourites, JKUAT’s Tabbie Njeri scored a brace to seal the win. Ivy Mung’ole scored KU’s consolation goal.
JKUAT captain Hera Joy said the victory was the result of teamwork and hard work.
“It has been an incredible journey for the team. We fought hard from the group stage to the final,” said Joy.
She thanked the university for supporting the team’s participation.
“We thank the school for funding the trip and providing equipment. The biggest challenge was the hot sun and the rough pitch which caused several injuries,” she said.
Joy dedicated the victory to women as the world marked International Women’s Day.
“As we celebrate women today, we dedicate this victory to all women. KUSF has created a great platform for developing talent,” she added.
Zetech University successfully defended their basketball title after edging Kisii University 38–34 in a closely contested final.
KU also won the handball title after defeating Embu University 19–08. The team later secured the netball crown with a commanding 51–30 victory over Kisii University.