Kisumu County Government has launched a new football club that will make its debut in the national super league this season.
Kisumu All Stars comprising of players drawn from the six sub-counties of the devolved unit will be playing their first match against St Joseph FC of Nakuru at Moi Stadium in Kisumu.
Speaking during the launch, Acting County Director of Sports Kenneth Otieno said a total of 120 players were selected from existing teams in Kisumu Central, Kisumu East, Kisumu West, Nyando, Seme, Muhoroni and Nyakach sub-counties to form the team.
This, he said, was in line with Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o’s manifesto to integrate sports and culture in the region.County Executive Committee Member (CEC) in charge of Tourism, Sports and culture Ms.Achi Alai challenged the players to maintain high levels of discipline and work hard to put the team on the map.
“Nothing comes on a silver platter but only through hard work, discipline and determination. I, therefore, urge all players to conduct themselves well and be keen on what they post on social media in order for us to achieve the set goals,” she said.
Economic Planning CEC Richard Ogendo congratulated the players and urged them to remain committed to the team.
"Football is a serious business and I assure you that those who will work hard will be successful at the end,” he said.
The Club’s Coach Nick Akech said 30 players had been registered to take part in the National Super League which kicks off tomorrow.
He said the team was well prepared to tackle all the matches this season and expressed optimism they would post good results.
The club treasurer Parminder Saini said the county government and the main sponsor of the team will do everything possible to ensure that the players are comfortable.