MAFA Academy from Isiolo County and MSF Starlets from Machakos County emerged as the Safaricom Chapa Dimba Eastern Region Champions in the soccer boys’ and girls’ categories respectively. The Regional Finals, held at Moi Stadium in Embu County, saw MSF Starlets defeat host Embu County Team Royal Queens Academy 3:1 to claim the ladies’ trophy. This victory marks a significant achievement for MSF Starlets, showcasing their skills and teamwork.
In the girls’ category, MSF Starlets had a remarkable run, beating AIC Sultan Queens from Makueni 1:0 in the semi-finals on Saturday. Their opponents, Royal Queens Academy, had also had a strong performance, defeating Dakabaricha Secondary from Marsabit 2:1 to advance to the finals. The competition was fierce, but MSF Starlets’ determination and skill ultimately led to their triumph. The team’s coach, Abednego Ancent, expressed his delight at the victory, attributing it to the girls’ hard work, discipline, and humility.
MAFA Academy dominated the boys’ final, defeating Mkinduri Lockstar from Meru County 8:0 in a one-sided match. This victory marked the first time MAFA Academy has been crowned Eastern Region Champions. The team’s impressive performance was consistent throughout the tournament, as they had also thrashed Mbuthani Secondary School from Makueni 6:1 in the semi-finals. MAFA Academy’s coach, Ibrahim Abdisalan, attributed the victory to months of training, hard work, discipline, dedication, and focus.
The Safaricom Chapa Dimba Eastern Region tournament offered substantial prizes for the winners. Both the boys’ and girls’ category winners received a trophy and Sh. 250,000 each, along with smartphones. The runners-up received a trophy, Sh. 150,000, and smartphones. Additionally, individual cash prizes of Sh. 30,000 and a trophy were awarded to the most valuable player, top scorer, and best goalkeeper of the tournament.
The winners of the Eastern Region tournament will represent the region in the Safaricom Chapa Dimba Nationals, scheduled to take place early next year. This national-level competition offers a platform for the teams to compete against other top teams from different regions. Safaricom Sales Manager Martin Chere encouraged young people to utilize their talents effectively, highlighting that some players who participated in the Eastern Region finals have already attracted the attention of major national teams, including Harambee Starlets.
Safaricom has incorporated technology into the tournament to identify outstanding players. The jerseys worn by the players were fitted with special technology gadgets that enable the tracking and analysis of their performances. This innovative approach allows for the identification of talented players and provides them with opportunities to join bigger teams. Chere revealed that teams that perform well at the national level will have the opportunity to travel to Sweden, where they will meet international players and gain valuable experience.
The Safaricom Chapa Dimba tournament aims to provide a platform for young Kenyan talents to showcase their skills and gain exposure to international opportunities. The tournament’s use of technology and provision of substantial prizes demonstrate its commitment to nurturing young talent. As the winners prepare for the national-level competition, they will carry with them the lessons learned and experiences gained from the Eastern Region tournament.
Key points
- MAFA Academy and MSF Starlets win Eastern Region Champions in soccer boys’ and girls’ categories
- Winners receive Sh. 250,000 and smartphones, and will represent the region in the Safaricom Chapa Dimba Nationals
- Safaricom incorporates technology into the tournament to identify outstanding players and provide them with opportunities to join bigger teams
