School Games: How AIC Nyayo are targeting national breakthrough after Eastern dominance
Reading Time: 3min | Mon. 30.03.26. | 14:15
At the nationals, AIC Nyayo have been drawn alongside Ng’iya Girls, Mwiki Secondary, and M-Pesa Foundation Academy, all experienced sides with national exposure
The quiet but dominant AIC Nyayo Girls’ hockey team heads into the 2026 KSSSA Term One National Games in Kisumu carrying one of the most consistent records in recent school hockey, four consecutive Eastern Region titles, and a growing reputation as a disciplined, structured side ready for the next step.
After once again asserting their dominance in the East with victory over Ukiya Girls in the regional final, AIC Nyayo return to the national stage determined not just to compete, but to contend for a place in the final and a ticket to the FEASSSA Games.
Download our Mozzart Sport App for more news
For head coach Samuel Mulandi, the journey has been built on consistency and deliberate development.
AIC Nyayo’s rise has not been accidental. According to Mulandi, the foundation of their success lies in sustained, year-round preparation.
That continuity has allowed the program to evolve steadily over the past four years, creating a culture where performance is expected rather than hoped for.
“The program has positively evolved with serious training since my players have become more motivated,” says Mulandi.
Their latest regional triumph was another reflection of that mindset.
“The girls were very determined to defend their Eastern Regional trophy for the fourth year.”
One of the key challenges for any dominant school team is managing transitions as players graduate.
At AIC Nyayo, that process has been structured and intentional.
“Incorporating new players joining Form One and Form Three into the team’s training, equipping them with the right hockey skills and exposing them through friendly matches,” says Mulandi.
This integration ensures continuity while maintaining competitiveness, allowing the team to remain strong despite yearly changes.
Motivation is also sustained through a reward-based culture.
“Rewarding players consistently at every level, from county to regional after retaining the trophies.”
At the nationals, AIC Nyayo have been drawn alongside Ng’iya Girls, Mwiki Secondary, and M-Pesa Foundation Academy, all experienced sides with national exposure.
Mulandi, however, avoids labeling the pool as either easy or difficult.
“I can’t say it’s easy or tough since all teams have been to nationals. It’s about being tactical in every game and remaining focused.”
His approach is pragmatic, taking each match as it comes, prioritizing wins, and avoiding defeats.
“Focus on winning each game, and if the worst comes, let it be a draw—but not a loss.”
AIC Nyayo’s confidence heading into Kisumu is anchored in their defensive organization and improved game management.
“We have better experience and defense compared to previous years.”
At the same time, the technical focus in training has shifted toward improving efficiency in front of goal. “We are sharpening our finishing tactics.”
Mulandi also points to a noticeable change in mentality compared to previous campaigns.
“In the past we have been playing softly, but this year things are different.”
With regional dominance already established, AIC Nyayo’s ambitions have now shifted to the national and East African stage.
“Our main target is to play in the finals and represent Kenya at the FEASSSA games.”
It is a bold but logical progression for a team that has consistently proven itself at the Eastern level.
Beyond tactics and preparation, Mulandi emphasizes belief as a central pillar of the team’s journey.
“With God plus smart work, success is possible.”
That philosophy has guided AIC Nyayo through its rise and now underpins its push for national recognition.
As the Kisumu nationals approach, AIC Nyayo arrives as a team defined by structure, discipline, and sustained success.
Their four-year regional dominance has laid the foundation, but the national stage presents a different challenge, one that will test their growth, resilience, and ambition.