Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) football giants St. Anthony’s School, Kitale will appeal their loss to St. Joseph Boys Kitale in the Trans Nzoia County Football finals staged on Monday 8th July 2024 at the Kipkekei Boys High School.
St. Anthony’s went 2-0 down to their rivals and their fans couldn’t wait for the final whistle as they disrupted the proceedings a minute to full time to protest some decisions they felt didn’t go their way.
After the game, the national school defending champions claimed that their opponents fielded ineligible players and questioned KSSSA’s integrity despite filing a complaint with the same body.
St. Anthony’s Statement in Full
Losing a final match is an ordeal that tests the resolve and spirit of any team, however, the Solidarity Boys have always believed in the transformative power of unity and dedication. Despite the bitter taste of defeat, our belief in the team’s growth and potential remains unshaken. Central to our philosophy is our investment in the players, extending beyond the realm of sports. We have committed ourselves to enriching their lives through free football coaching coupled with education scholarships. This dual-path approach ensures that our boys are not only adept on the field but also equipped with knowledge for their futures.
Integrity and transparency within the Kenya Secondary School Sports Association (KSSSA) are foundational elements that we have tirelessly advocated for. It is disheartening, therefore, to witness episodes that jeopardize these values. Our recent match against St. Joseph’s Boys Kitale brought to fore significant concerns regarding fair play. It has come to our attention that an overwhelming majority of their players, 98% to be precise, have cases to answer and are not supposed to participate in the under-19 school games, a violation that cannot be overlooked.
In response to these infractions, we have initiated legal proceedings against St. Joseph’s Boys for fielding ineligible players. Our action is not merely in response to a lost game but stems from a deep-seated principle that every participant in youth sports should adhere to the rules that ensure a level playing field. Accepting such impunity would be a disservice not only to our team but to the spirit of fair competition that nurtures true talent and sportsmanship.
The incident, while unfortunate, does not deter our resolve. It reinforces our commitment to fighting for a transparent, just, and equitable sporting environment. Losing with honour in the shadow of such adversity is, in itself, a profound honour. It underscores our dedication to upholding the principles of fair play, a tenet we believe is essential for the growth and development of youth sports in our society.
We stand united, undeterred by the challenges, believing in the potential of our team and the broader community of young athletes. Our journey is one of resilience, integrity, and hope. The Solidarity Boys will continue to champion the transformation of youth sports, ensuring that every player has a fair chance to compete, grow, and excel both on and off the field.
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