Kakamega School’s renowned football team, the Green Commandos, is set to revive its golden era by reverting to its traditional model of using exclusively enrolled students for Division 1 games.
Head coach Enock Lucheveleli explained, “We are going back to our old model of using only students currently enrolled at Kakamega School for Division 1 games.”
Lucheveleli believes this strategic shift will enhance their chances of reclaiming top honors in school football.
“Our goal is to win the Kenya Secondary School Football Boys title, as well as the East Africa Secondary School Football Boys title next year, especially since we will be hosting the East Africa Secondary School Games in 2025,” he added.
Coach Enock believes the use of students only in league matches is will be useful in nurturing talent homegrown talent at a young age
“By concentrating on students, we aim to give young players early exposure and scouting opportunities from top-flight clubs, enabling them to transition to the Kenya Premier League immediately after high school,” Lucheveleli noted.
He highlighted the effectiveness of this strategy, citing two standout players, James Collins and Calvin Akala, both in their final year, who have already secured deals with Kenya Premier League side Nairobi City Stars.
In addition to promoting student athletes, the Green Commandos have made strategic squad reinforcements ahead of the new season in Division 1
“We have brought in players from other schools who will now study here and contribute to the team,” Lucheveleli stated. “We’ve signed Jeremy from Kariobangi Sharks Youth and Imbiakha from Lugusi, among others. They will be key to our school games campaign and our journey in Division 1.”
The Green Commandos have a rich history of using purely student squads, a strategy that previously led to their promotion in the National Super League (NSL) in 2017 and a subsequent KSSSA title win in 2018. Lucheveleli is optimistic this model will lead to further success.
“We start our Division 1 matches this weekend, and the boys are ready to compete with the aim of promotion to the NSL once again,” he added.
The Green Commandos will kick off their 2024/25 Division 1 campaign this Saturday against Tranfoc at Mabao Stadium, with the match scheduled to begin at 1 pm.
