Kenyans celebrating a goal during a previous match| Photo Courtesy
Kenya’s national floorball team is set to make history as it prepares to compete in the World Floorball Championship in Switzerland at the end of April. This marks a monumental milestone for the sport in Kenya, which has grown steadily since its introduction in 2015 as they keep taking pace in floorball Africa.
Floorball, a fast-paced indoor sport similar to hockey but played with lighter sticks and a plastic ball, has seen remarkable progress in the country.
Over the years, Kenya has hosted and participated in various international tournaments, including the African Floorball Championship (AFCON). Kenya first hosted AFCON in 2019 at Kasarani, where both the men’s and women’s teams clinched the championship titles.
Kenya’s men floorball team in a photo session while celebrating the championship at the Kasarani indoor arena|photo courtesy| B.Marshall|
In 2023, at the AFCON tournament held in Ivory Coast, the women’s team secured a second-place finish, while the men’s team took third place, despite their strong performances, financial constraints and lack of government support.
In 2024, Kenya once again hosted AFCON at Kasarani, where the women’s team reclaimed the title, and the men’s team finished as runners-up.
The growth of floorball in Kenya has been driven by dedicated players and coaches, with the sport now being played in universities, polytechnical institutions, high schools and clubs nationwide.
With Kenya’s qualification for the Wold Floorball Championship, the team is now preparing to compete on the global stage.
Players and coaches are undergoing rigorous training to face off against the world’s best. However, financial challenges remain a major hurdle.
Without direct government funding, the Kenya Floorball Federation has had to rely on contributions from organizations, companies, and individuals to sustain international participation.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our players. We have the talent and passion to compete at the highest level, but we need adequate resources to be send a well-prepared squad,” said a federation representative, adding, ”We appreciate any support that can help us achieve this dream.”
As Kenya’s floorball team readies itself for the upcoming championship, the sport continues to inspire young athletes across the country. With increased visibility and support, floorball has the potential to become a major sporting discipline in Kenya’s athletic landscape.
The team’s journey to Switzerland represents not only a sporting achievement but also a testament to the resilience and determination of Kenyan athletes.
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