Jaguars push for Africa hockey crown despite budget woes

Western Jaguars men's hockey team manager, Peter Okova, has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to secure the title at this year’s Africa Cup for Clubs Championship, scheduled for January 30 to February 7 at the Youth City Hockey Stadium in Port Said, Egypt.

Reflecting on the team’s progress, Okova highlighted their exceptional performance at the 2023 edition held in Malawi, where they defied the odds to finish second behind Egypt's Sharkia, despite travelling under challenging conditions. The team also clinched their maiden Kenya Hockey Union Premier League title last season, surpassing pre-tournament favorites Butali Sugar Warriors.

“In Malawi, we defied odds and finished second behind winners Sharkia of Egypt. We had travelled via road to Malawi, and the fact that the lads put aside all those setbacks to emerge second was something. Last season, we shocked League favorites Butali Sugar Warriors to win our maiden title. This has given us morale, and we believe we have what it takes to win the African title,” said Okova.

However, the Kakamega-based team faces financial challenges in their bid to honour this year's tournament. Okova made a passionate appeal for support from well-wishers, companies, and the government to help the team meet their Sh6 million budget for the competition.

The loss of club president Wilfred Mutubwa last year has significantly impacted the team’s financial stability.

Mutubwa, who had supported the Jaguars since 2019 through his firm, Mutubwa Law, and partnerships with DTE Logistics, was a key figure in ensuring the team’s growth and success.

“Mutubwa’s foundation, managed under his firm, was the key sponsor to Jaguars, partnering with DTE Logistics, our shirt sponsors. The foundation paid school and university fees for our players and supported the team’s financial needs. Sadly, some players missed exams due to lack of funds after his death. His loss was a big blow to the team that we are yet to recover from,” Okova lamented.

Despite the financial constraints, the Jaguars are maintaining rigorous training sessions in preparation for the championship. The team will bank on the expertise of Irvan Ludiali, who recently played for Delta Venlo in the Netherlands, and rising stars Hillary Angairwa, Charles Ashihundu, Sheldon Kimtai, and veteran Moses Muigai.

The Jaguars earned their spot in the African tournament after winning the Premier League, edging out Butali Sugar Warriors and USIU-A, who finished second and third, respectively. While Butali will not participate in the event due to financial constraints, USIU-A and Sikh Union Club will join Jaguars in representing Kenya.

The women’s category will see Mombasa Sports Club make their maiden appearance alongside USIU-A, as both Blazers and Strathmore University are unable to participate due to financial hurdles.