A new chapter has been written in Bungoma County’s school volleyball history one defined by grit, justice, and an unwavering belief in fair play. Friends School Bokoli Boys’ volleyball team will return to the Western Kenya Regional stage for the first time since 2002, thanks to a decisive ruling that many see as a victory for integrity in school sports.
The drama began at the Bungoma County championships, where Bokoli fell just short in the semi-finals, losing 2-3 in a hard-fought battle against Chesamisi Boys. Meanwhile, Cheptais from Mt Elgon were knocked out by the dominant Namwela side, who claimed the county title without question.
However, the plot thickened when Bokoli raised concerns about the eligibility of some Chesamisi players after their semi-final loss. The jury upheld Bokoli’s protest, ruling Chesamisi ineligible and disqualifying them from the tournament. According to procedure, Bokoli should have advanced to the final against Namwela but instead, they were controversially told to replay a semi-final against Cheptais, who had already lost to Namwela.
This decision sparked debate and frustration among fans who felt Bokoli had done enough to earn their place. Determined not to let an unfair ruling stand, Bokoli’s administration, led by Principal Joseph Wafula, took the matter back to the jury. After days of deliberation and appeals, the verdict was clear: Cheptais would not proceed, and Friends School Bokoli would rightfully join Namwela as Bungoma’s representatives at the regional championships.
“It’s more than just a game,” Principal Wafula said. “It’s about standing up for what’s right and showing our boys that integrity matters as much as skill. They have earned this, and now they have to go out there and prove it.”
The significance of this ruling cannot be overstated. It marks Bokoli’s first regional appearance in 22 years a testament to their resilience and growth as a team. For the players, it is a second chance to chase their dream of reaching the nationals. For their community, it is a moment of pride and a reminder that fair play can still triumph in competitive sports.
Namwela, the reigning county champions, will join Bokoli at St. Peter’s Mumias next week as both schools carry Bungoma County’s hopes into what promises to be a fiercely contested regional tournament.
As the volleyball fraternity turns its eyes to Mumias, one thing is certain: Bokoli Boys will step onto that court with something to prove that they belong, that they fought for this moment, and that sometimes the biggest victories are earned long before the first serve.
Kudos bro.for the details well stated