B. OsanoReprieve for clubs as Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Complex's Hockey Ground opened
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Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 24.05.23. | 16:47
Kisumu based hockey teams had been using Simba ground and the Kisumu Day High School's facility
Hockey clubs in Kisumu can now access and use the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Complex's hockey ground following the nod from the Kisumu County government.
Through the Kisumu County Hockey Association (KCHA), the clubs petitioned the county's management for permission to use the facility which was officially granted on Monday.
The complex that boasts other sporting courts and recreational amenities was unveiled by the former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2020 after Ksh. 100 million face-lifts.
Yet, it remained closed after Kenyatta added another Ksh. 100 million for further works especially on the sporting wing.
The clubs have been given strict instructions to ensure proper maintenance of the facility. The authority may be revoked if misused.
"This correspondence serves as an approval for your request to access and use the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Complex's Hockey Ground for your activities subject to the condition that you always maintain the cleanliness and the standard of the facility.
"Do note that this approval may be withdrawn if found to be misused," a letter from City Manager Mr. Abala Wanga reads.
Ahead of their maiden appearance in the Kenya Hockey Union Women’s Super League, Kisumu Queens Hockey Club chose Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Complex's hockey ground as their home turf, however, they have not been able to stage matches there.
"It's a commendable step and a big win for Hockey clubs in Kisumu," KCHA chairman, who's also the coach of Queens Brian Aduda, told Mozzart Sport.
"We will continue to push the county officers to help with rehabilitation of the ground to make it playable," Aduda, a former Kenya international, added.
Kisumu boasts two ladies' teams, Lakers Hockey Club, playing in the Women’s Premier League and the Queens.
The teams mostly use Kisumu Simba Ground and Kisumu Day High School Ground, which are shared by other teams, for their league games.
"We have been a bit squeezed in terms of grounds to use, so this addition is much welcome," Aduda said.
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