Tributes pour in as young hockey umpire Stephen Aggrey is laid to rest
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Reading Time: 3min | Sat. 03.05.25. | 22:00
Born in 2001, Aggrey began his hockey journey at St. Peter’s Boys High School, Mumias, before advancing to Egerton University
The Kenyan hockey community is mourning the loss of one of its youngest and most promising umpires, Stephen Aggrey, who passed away on Tuesday, 22 April.
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Aggrey, 24, was laid to rest on Saturday, 3 May, at his family home in Buyofu Village, Busia County.
Aggrey's death has left a deep void in the hockey fraternity, with tributes pouring in from across the country in honour of a man described as humble, cheerful, and dedicated to the game.
The Kenya Hockey Union (KHU), through its president and executive council, eulogised Aggrey as an irreplaceable figure within the Kenya Hockey Umpires Association (KHUA).
"His loss has left a deep void in his family and within the Kenya Hockey Umpires Association," read part of the official statement.
"His untimely demise leaves an irreplaceable void. During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family, colleagues, and friends."
Peter Obalo, Secretary of KHUA, remembered Aggrey as “a young man who was focused and always ready to listen and learn.”
He praised Aggrey’s humility and consistent smile, noting that he was a valued member of the umpiring body and an example to others.
Born in 2001, Aggrey began his hockey journey at St. Peter’s Boys High School, Mumias, before advancing to Egerton University.
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He featured for Bungoma Farmers Hockey Club in the KHU league before retiring from active play due to health issues and transitioning to umpiring, a role in which he quickly rose to prominence.
Aggrey’s officiating credentials included league matches under KHU and notably the final of the 2024 Mombasa County Hockey Association (MCHA) annual national tournament, one of the most prestigious hockey events in the country.
His selection for such high-profile matches underscored his competence and growing stature in the sport.
Bungoma Farmers, his former team, posted a heartfelt tribute on social media:
"Just at the start of this year, we celebrated your birthday. Today we celebrate the life you've lived. RIP bro. Rest In Peace, Steve Aggrey 'Lefty'. Bungoma Farmers hockey mourns the loss of a respected umpire and friend of the game."
Outside of hockey, Aggrey was also a former footballer and an active football referee under the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Busia County Branch.
The loss of Aggrey is not only a personal tragedy for his family but also a significant blow to the hockey community in Kenya, which had come to view him as a rising star in officiating circles.
As the final whistle blew on his young life, Aggrey's legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he uplifted both on and off the field.
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