Mombasa Sports Club ladies hockey team appeals for support to secure African Championship spot
Mombasa Sports Club Ladies Hockey Team faces the daunting challenge of raising Ksh.6.3 million in less than two weeks to secure their spot in the Africa Club Hockey Championship in Cairo. With this historic opportunity marking the first-ever qualification for a coastal region team, the club is appealing for urgent support to turn their dream into reality.
Mombasa Sports Club Ladies Hockey Team is at risk of missing the Africa Club Hockey Championship due to financial constraints. The tournament is scheduled to begin on January 30, 2025, in Cairo, Egypt.
The team received short notice of their qualification, making it difficult to raise the necessary funds in time. According to the club chairman, Michael Sangoro, they were notified of their participation just a week ago.
“The confirmation letter arrived only a week ago, leaving us with very little time to gather the funds,” said Sangoro.
The team needs Sh 6.3 million to cover expenses for players and officials by January 28, 2025, which is less than two weeks away. So far, they have managed to raise Sh 600,000, with some support from Mombasa Sports Club.
This opportunity is historic for the team, as it marks the first time a club from the coastal region has qualified for the prestigious African tournament.
“This is a significant achievement for the coastal region and an inspiration for other teams,” added Sangoro, who made a public appeal for support.
“We call on the corporate sector, individuals, and businesses in the coastal region, especially in Mombasa County, to support us. Help these players achieve their dreams,” he said.
Kenya’s delegation to the tournament includes three teams: Blazers Hockey Club, Strathmore University, and Mombasa Sports Club. The teams secured their spots after tying on 20 points in the league, with goal difference separating them.
Mombasa Sports Club captain Esther Mwikali expressed optimism about securing the necessary support, saying the players are determined to make an impact if they make it to Cairo.
“Nothing good comes easy. It has been a tough journey to get here, and it would be heartbreaking to miss this chance. We’re hopeful we’ll get the support we need,” said Mwikali.
Coach Rajab Babu, the team’s sports convener, emphasised the importance of the tournament for the players' careers.
“Cairo will be a great platform for our ladies to showcase their talent. I’m confident they’ll catch the attention of bigger teams. This is also an opportunity to put Mombasa on the map as a hub for talent. We urge sponsors to help us make history,” said Babu.
Mombasa County Hockey Association President Oliver Mascherainhes echoed these sentiments, highlighting the team’s achievements.
“We want to send these talented young girls to Egypt to show the world what Mombasa can produce. The team has had a remarkable debut in the top league, finishing second in two national tournaments and excelling in Uganda. Now is their time to shine on the international stage,” said Mascherainhes.
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