Introduction
On Saturday, October 10, 2024, a team of 32 members from the Egerton University Alumni-Soccer was warmly welcomed by Mr. Philip Mwanzia (Ag. Coordinator Sports and Games), the University's sports officer. This vibrant alumni soccer association comprises 98 graduates from the class of 1990 to the recently graduated class of 2019, hailing from different regions across the country. Their common goal is to express gratitude to this world-class university by supporting the school's football team and elevating its profile in co-curricular activities alongside academic excellence.
Objectives and Vision
The Egerton University Alumni Soccer Association is driven by a powerful mission: to foster a strong sense of community among alumni while promoting sportsmanship and excellence in football. The association aims to:
- Support and Inspire: Provide financial and emotional support to one another, creating a family-like atmosphere.
- Network for Success: Facilitate networking opportunities that empower members in their professional journeys.
- Elevate the University’s Profile: Enhance the visibility of Egerton University through active participation in football events.
- Mentorship: Guide current students in realizing their potential, emphasizing that talent is their greatest asset.
Event Highlights
The event was characterized by a beehive of exciting activities that attracted hundreds of spectators—students and staff alike—to the Sports Pavilion. The day featured two thrilling matches that showcased not only skill on the pitch but also the spirit of camaraderie.
Match 1: Alumni Team vs. Students Team
In a historic showdown, the millennials (Alumni Team), as referred to by spectators, marched onto the pitch to face the Students' Team. As the African adage states, each day has its unique fortune; God rewarded the Students Team with an impressive performance, resulting in them scoring 5 goals against the Alumni Team, who managed to score none. This outcome marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time the Students Team triumphed over their alumni counterparts. "This victory is attributed to passion and active participation in the Egerton University Students League every weekend... Forward ever, backward never," declared their coach, encapsulating the essence of determination.
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Alumni FC captain in Yellow and Black, Gerald Kiplangat (2009) -(Right) and 2011 Captain (Ashford Mbugua)-(Left), in action during the match between Alumni Team vs. E.U. Staff Team |
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Mentorship Talks
After an exhilarating day on the pitch, Mr. Nick Omondi of the Kenya Revenue Authority in Nairobi—serving as Chairperson of the Egerton University Alumni Soccer Association—led students through a series of impactful mentorship talks. "Your talent is your greatest asset that can bring you honor on the world stage, provided you (the students) are passionate about it; however, it can depreciate in value if not put into perfect practice," emphasized Mr. Omondi. The alumni also guided students on market needs and niches, with Dr. Okello reinforcing that "network is networth."
Generous Donations
The host reaped benefits ranging from invaluable mentorship talks to donations of 10 footballs and 30 training kits. Additionally, the generosity of the Soccer Alumni Association treated all school teams to a mouthwatering luncheon, marking a heartwarming conclusion to Saturday's activities.
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Alumni FC chairman, Mr. Nickson Omondi (Right) and Dr. Dickson Okello (Left) presenting donations to the student captain. |
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Future Plans
From an eagle's-eye perspective, the committee of the alumni soccer association observed that the EGERTON OPENS—an annual football event with other colleagues and universities that has served as an avenue for networking between the university and private sectors—has not been taking place recently. They proposed collaborating with the University's Sports Department to revive this cherished tradition. If an agreement is reached between both parties, this event will occur annually, with the first one likely to materialize in February 2025.
Contributors
Article by: Benard Hargreaves (English & Literature student) and Dr. Dickson Okello (Alumni and Lecturer Agec & Agbm Department); Edited by: Communications Officer, Egerton University
