National hockey teams back in training for Afcon

Kenya women's hockey team coach Jacqueline Mwangi is impressed by the competitiveness of the players
ahead of Africa Cup of Nations in Accra, Ghana.

The Kenya men and women's teams Wednesday evening reported to non residential training at the City Park Stadium and at the Sikh Union respectively in Nairobi.

The women's team under the guidance of Mwangi conducted their training sessions at the Sikh Union, while their men counterparts, under the watchful eyes of Fidhelis Kimanzi, took their sessions at the City Park Stadium.

The quadrennial event will be staged at the Theodosia Okoh Stadium from January 17-23.

Mwangi is optimistic the team will begin residential training soon so that the players can gel.

"We took some days off so that the players can have time with their families during THE holiday festivities and I'm glad that all the players are here and ready for the assignment ahead.

Before we took the break, we were trying new formations and we hope that it will work going forward. All the players are going the extra mile and are willing to learn.That has made it easy for us ," said Mwangi, who doubles up as the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Athlete Committee member.

"We began training with over 45 players but currently we have 25 at our disposal.We have been whittling down the numbers guided by so many factors. However, only 18 players will travel and we intend to settle on those who deserve the slots," Mwangi added.

Kenya are in group 'B' alongside champions South Africa, Nigeria, Zambia and the hosts. Zimbabwe, Uganda and Namibia form pool 'A'.

The top two teams in each pool will proceed to the semifinals.

The East Africans finished fourth behind South Africa, Ghana and Nigeria in the last event that was held in South Africa.

Kenya men's team is in pool 'A' together with reigning champions South Africa and Namibia. Pool 'B' has Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria and Uganda. Kenya finished last behind Ghana, Egypt and eventual winners South Africa.