School Games: How St Anthony’s Kitale plan to reclaim national glory

St Anthony’s Boys High School, Kitale, head into the 2026 KSSSA Term One National Games, in Kisumu, with a clear objective; to turn last year’s near miss into national glory.

After finishing as silver medalists in 2025, the Rift Valley giants return with renewed hunger, experience and a legacy that places them firmly among Kenya’s most successful school hockey programs.

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With eight national titles and seven East African crowns to their name, St Anthony’s are no strangers to the big stage.

However, for head coach Kevin Lugalia, past success is not enough, the focus is firmly on the present.

Last year’s final defeat has become the fuel behind this season’s campaign.

“The motivation is extremely high. Falling just short left a hunger in the boys, and they’ve carried that determination into this season. They don’t just want to participate, they want to finish the job,” says Lugalia.

That hunger has defined their preparation, turning disappointment into purpose as they build toward Kisumu.

The experience of playing and losing a national final has shaped the team’s approach this year.

“We learned the importance of composure in high-pressure moments and taking our chances when they come.”

In response, St Anthony’s have refined key aspects of their game.

“We’ve focused on game management, especially in the final quarters, and being clinical in front of goal.”

These adjustments could prove decisive in a tournament where margins are often minimal.

Since last year’s campaign, the squad has undergone both tactical and mental growth.

“The team has matured both mentally and tactically. We’ve built better cohesion, improved fitness levels, and developed a stronger defensive structure,” says Lugalia.

The integration of younger players has also strengthened depth, giving the team more options across the pitch.

St Anthony’s have been drawn into a challenging group that includes hosts Kisumu Day and Nairobi champions Hospital Hill and Central region champions Alliance High School.

Lugalia acknowledges the challenge but remains confident in his team’s ability.

“It’s a competitive pool, and we respect all our opponents. Our focus is to take one game at a time, execute our plan, and aim to finish top.”

St Anthony’s approach to the game remains rooted in discipline and structure, combined with attacking intent.

“You can expect disciplined, fast-paced, and attacking hockey. We like to control possession, press high, and transition quickly while maintaining a solid defensive shape,” says Lugalia.

This balance between control and aggression has been a hallmark of their success over the years.

While Lugalia emphasizes the collective, he points to a strong core within the team.

“Our captain leads from the front, the midfield controls the tempo, and our goalkeeper has been outstanding.”

That spine, combined with contributions from across the squad, provides the stability required at the national level.

As one of the traditional powerhouses, expectations naturally follow St Anthony’s into every tournament.

Rather than shy away, the team embraces it.

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According to Lugalia, Pressure is a privilege, it shows people believe in the team and maintaining focus amid those expectations will be key.

For Lugalia and his team, success in Kisumu is clearly defined.

“Success means giving our best in every match, playing disciplined hockey, and improving with each game. But the ultimate goal is to win the championship.”

That ambition is backed by history.

The last time St Anthony’s lifted the national title was in 2022, when they defeated Friends School Kamusinga, a reminder of their ability to deliver on the biggest stage.

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As the Kisumu nationals approach, St Anthony’s Kitale arrive as a team blending tradition with renewed purpose.

Their pedigree commands respect, their preparation inspires confidence, and their motivation is unmistakable.