Talented University of Eldoret student signs for Equity Handball Club
Reading Time: 3min | Mon. 15.06.26. | 13:08
The 22-year old is glad that the move will open the door to work with national team head coach at Equity
For Kevin Rotich, the journey from the handball courts of Vihiga County to one of Kenya's most successful handball clubs has been years in the making.
The 22-year-old right-back has completed a dream move to Equity Handball Club after four impressive seasons at the University of Eldoret (UoE), where he established himself as one of the most promising young talents in the game.
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Rotich leaves UoE having captained the side for the last two years, a role that further showcased his leadership qualities both on and off the court.
Joining the Kenyan handball giants represents the next chapter in a remarkable rise that began at Nyang'ori School in Vihiga County under the guidance of coach Phabian Odhiambo.
It was Odhiambo who first introduced Rotich to the sport, setting him on a path that would eventually lead to the country's top flight.
Together, they helped script a piece of history in 2020 when Nyang'ori claimed its inaugural Vihiga County handball title.
Reflecting on his journey, Rotich credited those early years for shaping him into the player he is today.
"It's an emotional moment for me because this is a move I've dreamed about for a long time," said Rotich.
"When I started playing handball at Nyang'ori School, I never imagined that one day I would join a club like Equity. Looking back, I'm grateful to Coach Phabian Odhiambo for believing in me and introducing me to the sport. Every stage of my journey has taught me something important."
His move to Equity places him under the tutelage of Kenya national team head coach Peter Mwathi and alongside several established internationals, a prospect that has further fueled his ambition.
"Being able to train under coach Peter Mwathi and share a dressing room with national team players is a huge opportunity for me," he said.
"These are players I've admired and watched for years. Now I have the chance to learn from them every day. I know the standards are higher, but that's exactly the challenge I wanted."
Rotich arrives at Equity after developing into a key figure at UoE, where his powerful shooting from right-back, defensive discipline and leadership qualities earned him respect across the league.
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Despite the step up in competition, the former UoE captain insists he is ready to put in the work required to earn his place in the squad.
"Nothing is guaranteed at a club like Equity. I know I have to work hard every day, earn my minutes and continue improving. My focus right now is to contribute to the team's success and make the most of every opportunity I get in the Premier League."
The ambitious right-back also revealed that a place in the Kenya national team remains one of his biggest goals.
"Every player dreams of representing their country and I'm no different. Joining Equity gives me a platform to grow and challenge myself against the best. If I can stay consistent, get enough playing time and keep improving, I believe a national team call-up will come."
As he begins life at one of Kenya's handball powerhouses, Rotich's story serves as a testament to patience, hard work and determination.
From helping Nyang'ori School win a historic county title to leading the University of Eldoret and now earning a move to Equity Handball Club, the 22-year-old's rise has been steady and impressive.
The next goal is clear: establish himself in the Premier League, learn from some of Kenya's finest players and ultimately wear the national team colours.
For Rotich, the dream move may have arrived, but the real work is only just beginning.