“Sports build mental strength. Since I began playing this game, my confidence has grown. Courage and belief in my ability, in not only to win but also to face real-life challenges has never been stronger.” Angel Kimanzi, 16, said as she sat down to join me on the sidelines, watching her team in practice.

A form 3 student at St. Annes Girls Secondary School, Angel was introduced to Curling in 2021 by her skating coach. The sport identified with winter has grown exponentially in Kenya, since being introduced by Laventer Oguta, the President of the Kenya Curling Federation, against all odds. Angel was among the players who visited Finland last year to represent the country.

“The game is fun, and our team is like a family.” She said when I asked about her experience thus far.

“Friendship is the fabric that holds us together as we strive to help each other excel. The game is relatively new in Africa, and the infrastructure is a far cry, however, we make do, since it is not about the right equipment but the right attitude and goal.” The team that initially trained at Panari Ice Skating Rink but currently uses the Kasarani Indoor arena, which arguably, is not ideal for the sport, has decried the need for government action to bolster the sport.

Angel further applauded the sportsman qualities and principles that have imparted her character. “Even though the sport is nice and enjoyable, competition is stiff. However, loyalty and fairness are the guiding principles in play whenever we face an opponent,” she stated. Dreaming of becoming a lawyer, Angel believes sports are integral to an individual’s development. In most instances, one may find it hard to balance work and/or education with fitness, easily remedied by discipline.

Determination and belief in oneself are the truth of why we explore the unknown, not to mention curiosity. In its entirety, exploration is rife with hurdles that build character. Kenya is a sports nation with a vibrant young population, making sports not only a goldmine for investment but also, security to the nation’s future.  Determination and belief are evident in the youth and management’s commitment and dedication to sports, signaling a need for unbridled support and empowerment from the government and stakeholders.