The second edition of Phillip Mkui tournament has officially kicked off in Kabuchai constituency with over sixteen teams involved in the campaign.
The Mkui cup tournament was launched last month with a vision to bring together Kabuchai youth community while promoting healthier outdoor lifestyles and nurturing leadership qualities that are key to a successful future.
Free and open to boys and girls between the ages of twelve and thirty five, the second edition is expanded to include more categories for and a larger tournament for the girls.
Five hundred players from across the sub county will take place in the Cup, which is expected to attract over 35,000 spectators over its 6-week run.
Speaking at the press conference, Phillip Mkui who is the sponsor said, “Based on the success of the first edition of the tournament and the demand, the Cup has now become the “Mkui fundamental approach in keeping the youths busy.”
“The future of Mkui cup is promising as we continue to witness growing participation from both boys and girls. We are delighted to bring an expanded second edition and we look forward to welcoming the all the county community at this important event for youth sports.” Said he.
The tournament will be played across the sub county and at the county level, using its world-class, state-of-the-art facilities, under the expert guidance of Nalondo stadium managing team.
“I am delighted to be here for the kick-off of the 2nd edition of the tournament. We witnessed such a great passion for football among the youth last year and I am certain that more talent will emerge as the tournament progress this year. This is such as an important event for the youth and community of Bungoma County,” said Mr. Mkui.
According to him over sixteen teams of girls and boys across the sub county and outside it will compete for the grand prize, the best players are being helped to join big clubs in the Kenyan premier league and out Kenya.
“Having witnessed the massive success of the Football Cup’s inaugural tournament and how much of a positive and inspirational force for change it is on the players, their families and coaches, am proud to extend yet again my support to this groundbreaking initiative which is aligned with my vision for a healthy active lifestyle for youth,” said Mkui.
He said that he is committed at aspiring their future and to helping youths live a fulfilled life, nurturing in them values that are key to their development, leadership qualities namely, focus, humility, collaboration and adaptability.
The tournament has become the new home of youth footballer enthusiasts and he is proud to welcome all.
“We have an exciting program this year, with activities for players and spectators and I urge all the families to come down to Sports and support the children and enjoy a fantastic day out.” He added.
The tournament will see 16 teams in four groups competing for the title, as part of his commitment to providing exciting platforms for community members to be fit and active.
Through this and other community engagement activities, Mr. Mkui encourages members of the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle by playing a sport they enjoy in a fun and competitive environment.
On the opening match Ksiwa Technical thrashed Kisiwa FC two goals to one Kisiwa Technical scored the first goal through Oliver Wanyama and Ferdinand Barasa the lone goal for Kisiwa FC was scored by Harrison.
In another exciting game Sikata FC was beaten one goal to nill by Chemwa FC after it was held by Nangwe FC in one -one draw.
In Mkuyuni ward Chebukaka FC hammerd Makhonge FC four goals to one in an entertaining match that was played at Chebukaka primary school.
Elsewhere Lukhome beat Jamii 1-0 after Chenjeni also gave an electric shock to Sichei with a win of 3-1 Mbaraki draw 1-1 with Kimalewa same to Teremi that was held 1-1 by Nelima, Chepsitati and Milmbe also drew 1-1 while Madisi was held to a barren by Namaondo.
The tournament continuous this weekend until 1st of June this year.