Six Nakuru players join national Deaf football team

Six players from Nakuru County have earned places in Kenya’s national squad for the upcoming Deaflympics set to take place in Tokyo, Japan, in November this year.

The players selected are Diana Joyce, Ann Bhoke, Brenda Razoa, Winnie Cherono, Winnie Odado, and Lydia Okoth.

According to Dominic Ruto, Chairman of the Nakuru County Deaf Football Association, most of these athletes have been playing actively since 2019, when Deaf Women’s Football officially began in Kenya under the DFFK program. 

"Over the years, they have trained consistently and participated in both local and national tournaments, with all of them playing for Flamingo Deaf Football Club," he says 

He adds that several players also bring international experience to the squad, where Cherono, Joyce, Lydia, and Ann have previously represented Kenya at the Deaflympics, alongside Mary Njeri, who was not selected this time, forming part of the earlier national team. 

Ruto believes their experience will be vital in boosting the team’s performance in Tokyo.

Reflecting on the last Deaflympics held in Brazil in 2022, Ruto notes that the Kenyan side gave a spirited fight but struggled against more established teams. 

"Despite the challenges, the players gained valuable international exposure, which has motivated them to push for better results this time. With an early two-month training camp planned locally, hopes are high for improved performance in Tokyo," he says. 

However, Ruto expresses concern over the challenges the team continues to face highlighting the lack of financial support and the absence of consistent backing from the government and other authorities. 

In addition, the players have limited access to professional training facilities and essential equipment. 

Ruto appeals for more sponsorships and stronger community support, emphasizing that adequate preparation is key if the team is to shine in the competition.