From curiosity to passion: Vincent Wesonga’s journey to maiden hockey national team selection

When Vincent Wesonga first walked onto a hockey pitch, it was not because the sport had always been his dream.

In fact, his early days at St. Charles Lwanga Secondary School Changamwe, saw him dabble in rugby and football.

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The turning point came when his brother began telling him stories about the school’s hockey team — how they enjoyed access to resources and opportunities unlike any other sport at the school.

Intrigued, Wesonga decided to give it a try.

“I actually started playing hockey out of the urge to try something new while in my final year,” recalls Wesonga. “At first, I was just curious, but my brother’s talks about the hockey team inspired me. I even walked from Changamwe to Shanzu to watch the school play during the 2019 National Games. That curiosity soon turned into passion.”

Like many athletes, Wesonga’s journey has been shaped by the people who believed in him.

©Alvin Wesonga

His first coach, Julius Masero, taught him how to hold a hockey stick and set him on a path that would change his life.

Along the way, mentors such as Ignatius Wandera, Ibrahim, Joshua Njogu, Bill Olang, Mathew Friday, Austin Otieno, Antony Wamalwa, Bony Mandela, and Henry Otuoma helped him grow as both a player and a person.

He also acknowledges the unwavering support of his club manager, Farhan Khan, and individuals like Sophia Kasichana and James Ochuka, who assisted him financially when challenges threatened to derail his progress.

Today, Wesonga plays for Daikyo Heroes Hockey Club in the Kenya Hockey Union men’s Premier League, where he has earned a reputation as a reliable and versatile forward.

For him, playing at the club is about more than individual accolades.

“At Daikyo Heroes, I see my role as contributing both on and off the pitch — working hard during matches, supporting my teammates, and keeping the team spirit alive,” says Wesonga. “I’m proud of crucial goals and defensive contributions I’ve made, but what I value most is the chemistry I share with my teammates.”

The 22-year-old’s rise has not been without obstacles. From limited facilities to the challenge of staying consistent in training and matches, Wesonga has had to remain disciplined and adaptable.

“One of the biggest challenges has been balancing consistency,” he explains. “But I’ve learned to stay disciplined, focus on what I can control, and turn challenges into stepping stones. With the support of my teammates and coaches, I’ve kept moving forward.”

Kenya Hockey Union names squads for Africa Cup of Nations duty

Early this year, Wesonga earned a place in the Kenya Under-21 team that travelled to Namibia for the Junior Africa Cup — a qualifier for the Junior World Cup. The experience gave him a glimpse of the demands of international hockey.

“Playing at that level was eye-opening,” says Wesonga. “It taught me the importance of preparation, teamwork, and mental toughness. I realized that even small details — discipline, structure, communication — make a huge difference.”

That exposure paved the way for his first senior national team call-up for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Ismailia, Egypt (October 11–18, 2025).

©Alvin Wesonga

“Honestly, I was overwhelmed with joy,” Wesonga says of receiving the news. “It felt like a dream come true. My first thought was gratitude — to God, my family, teammates, and coaches who believed in me. Wearing the national colors is special, and it motivates me to keep pushing harder.”

As he joins the senior roster, Wesonga is determined to make his presence felt.

“On the pitch, I bring energy, commitment, and the willingness to give my all. Off the pitch, I try to bring positivity and unity because I know team spirit is as important as tactics.”

For now, his focus is on cementing his place in the senior side and making meaningful contributions in Egypt.

©Alvin Wesonga

Looking further ahead, he dreams of becoming a leader in the team, representing Kenya in major international tournaments, and inspiring future players.

His advice to the next generation is simple but powerful: “Stay consistent, patient, and hardworking. The journey isn’t easy — there are ups and downs — but passion and discipline will carry you through. Listen to your coaches, learn from every game, and never lose belief in yourself. If I could make it here, they can too.”

From a boy inspired by his brother’s stories to a young man on the verge of wearing the national jersey, Vincent Wesonga’s journey reflects not just talent but resilience, gratitude, and a deep love for hockey.

As Kenya prepares for continental battle in Ismailia, his story is proof that dreams built on curiosity can grow into legacies.