SAFARI TENNIS EXPERIENCE at Sadili Oval Sports Academy (August 2024)

SAFARI TENNIS EXPERIENCE

Join us as we dive into the world of tennis with an event that promises to be more than just a game with world female coaches in the persons of JUDY MURRAY (SCOTLAND), LIZ ODERA(KENYA), TINA SAMARA(USA), and EMMA DOYLE (AUSTRALIA)

This event will showcase the talent of both seasoned professionals and rising stars. Expect to witness a display of strategy and the indomitable spirit that defines tennis. You can register here

 

The Mission

Our mission is to bring together tennis enthusiasts from all walks of life to share in the joy of the sport. We aim to create an inclusive environment where passion for Tennis ignites, skills are honed, and lifelong memories are made.

 

Activities

Skill Workshops: Improve your game with tips from the talented coaches

Meet and Greets: Interact with our able coaches

Exhibition Matches: Watch top coaches compete in friendly matches.

Junior Tournaments: Encourage the next generation of tennis stars.

 

The Experience

This event will strengthen your coaching experience through your interaction with our able coaches: EMMA DOYLE (AUSTRALI), TINNA SAMARA (USA),  LIZ ODERA (KENYA), and JUDY  MURRAY (SCOTLAND). So, Enjoy the fans of our coaches and the festive atmosphere that only a tennis event can offer.

Furthermore, you could expect these helpful outcomes from the events which include:

Enhanced Skills: Participants will leave with improved coaching techniques.

New Connections: Forge friendships within the tennis community. Connections remain the strongest currency in this century.

Inspiration: Be motivated by the coaches to take your game to the next level.

 

How to Get Involved.

Interested in being a part of this exciting event? Here’s how:

Register Online through this link 

OR

 Scan the QR on the poster to download the application form.

Written By Quinter Akoth

Sadili Oval: Harnessing the Power of Sports and Using it to Break the Germ Cycle at Olympic Primary School, Nairobi

Recognizing the crucial role that sanitation and hygiene play in children’s health and development, Sadili Oval through its Court of Dreams project is using sports and games to educate children and facilitate behavior change, particularly with regard to hand washing with soap, which is by far the best way to prevent germs from spreading and the most cost-effective means to reduce illnesses.

On Tuesday 31^st May 2016, staff from Sadili Oval Sports Academy visited Olympic Primary School in Kibera, Nairobi with a mission to reach pupils and teach life skills, and most importantly hand washing. The team arrived at the school at around noon and it all started by more than 400 kids being invited to do what they love the most: play. This was meant to get them excited and eager to hear the message Sadili had brought them.

The short games session was followed by our social educators’ hand washing lesson that majorly revolved around when, why and how to wash hands. The social educators took the children step by step through the process by demonstrating and explaining in detail how hands should be washed using soap and clean water. This was followed by a few of the kids being given a chance to wash their hands, just as they had been taught, in front of the rest of the pupils. To make all this even more interesting, the educators composed a song in Swahili describing how hands should be washed and the children happily sang as their colleagues did the washing.

After the hand washing, the kids went back to playing, this time for a longer period while with guidance from Sadili’s coaches. Although the kids being many and difficult to control due to the large number, everyone had fun at the end of the day. Besides, games are more than just about having fun since they come with life skills such as confidence; team work and a sense of community.

Being a Parents’ day at the school, the staff from Sadili took advantage and got a chance for an informational session where they explained to parents Sadili’s activities and the Court of Dreams project. The parents were so excited by these activities that by the end of the day, close to 200 of them had shown support for the Court of Dreams project by registering to have their children participate in it.

Do not underestimate the power of sports. 

Let them play!

Malezi Basketball Grabs Chance To High School Finals

The stage was set at Sunshine Academy today for the semi-finals of the Lang’ata District. Malezi High, St. Aloysious, Lang’ata High, Olympic and Light Academy were the teams present to fight for their place in the finals.

The Malezi Varsity, Langata District favourites, came out the gates with fire in their eyes and clearly something to prove. Eddy Amos (PG/SG), freshman, had his first high school basketball depute today verses the St. Aloysious team; stepping in for Captain Zack Okong’o who had an ankle injury and is out of action for the District Play-offs.

With their leader out one knew how Malezi would respond, but respond they did scoring a convincing 94 points against their opponents; ending the game with a 94—04 vicotry over the St. Aloysious.

Leading Scorers were:

Fred Odhiambo (F)   28-points, 15-rebounds, 2-blocks

John Madol (SG/SF)  18-points, 8-rebounds, 9-assissts, 8-steals

Lwal Mathiang (SF/F)          16-points, 17-rebounds, 3-steals

Samuel Mwalo (PG/SG)        16-points, 8-assissts, 7-steals

The District Final Game tips off tomorrow at Sunshine Academy, where the Malezi Varsity team will continue their wins streak and attain District bragging rights and title.

Come out and support the Finals.

LOVE THE GAME

Nicaro Golding

Assistant Coach

Sadili Players Dominate 2nd Day Of Heroes Tournament

Sadili Oval's tennis players dominated the matches of U14, U16 and U18 categories at Nairobi Club on the second heroes tournament on Sunday. 
11 year old Sada Nahimana maintained an unbeaten record, to lift the Girls Under 14s after trouncing Mercy Mijide 6/2,6/0 in the semis, and Tonia Kubai 6/2 6/1 in the finals. 
Melisa Brown pushed out of lassitude in the second set to beat Achu Madheui 6/3,5/7 (10) to book a Girls U16 final against Chizi Mutsumi, who had won against the Khadija Ali 6/2 6/3, a match which Chizi won narrowly 3/6 6/3 (11)
Like Sada, Sadili team captain for the tournament, Jamin Luvembe, comfortably dispatched with opposition beating is closest rival, team mate 15 year old John "Metal" Lutaya 6/4,6/2, .
Peter Ndungu 6/0,6/0 to take the Boys U18. Lutaya took the runner-up medal after trouncing Peter Ndungu 6/1 6/0. 
Henry Ayiesiga vs Petty Ananda..6/2,6/2 in the semi-finals of the Boys Under 16, to set up an exciting final against team mate, Shebani Kabura, who won narrowly against yet another Sadili star, Robert Kasombo 6/4 4/6 (10) in the other semis. Shebani overcame Ayesiga 6/4 6/3 to grab the gold medal. 
In other matches, Wycliffe Okenye lost in a close semi-finals against Shivam Shah 6/7(1),4/6 in the Boys U14. 
The tournament served as early preparation towards the East African Zonals in January in early 2013 and to which selected teams are likely to include Olivier, Sada, Chizi, Shebani, Henry, Lutaya and Melissa.
Many thanks to Kassie McIlvaine, Amolo Ngweno and Liz Odera for contributing towards making it possible for the Sadili team to attend the tournament, and to KLTA for giving a waiver for some of the entries.

Surprise Wins At East Africa Junior Tennis Open

2012 National Schools Doubles Champion, Jamin Luvembe (Kenya) today defeated Amadi Kagoma (Burundi) 6/4 6/3 in at outstanding display of swift returns and amazing angles, breaking the Burundian's long reign to become the reigning Champion, at the annual East Africa Junior Tennis Open held at Sadili Oval Sports Academy in Langata, Nairobi. Henry Ayesiga came third after beating Richard Ooko 6.2. In the girls Under 18s, 15 year old Chizi Mutsumi (Kenya) beat Lorna Bhwenjje (Kenya) 6/1 6/4 to lift the crown. The girls Under 16 saw Chizi once again grab the trophy, after beating Melissa Brown (Tanzania) 6/3 6/2. Antonia Szapary (Austria) was third. In the Boys 16s, Henry Ayesiga (Uganda) played a long and difficult match against Robert Kasombo (Kenya), slipping through 4-6 6-2 12-10 too finals, where he beat John Lutaaya (Uganda) 6/2 6/1. Amon Muinde was third. Fourth seed Shivam Shah made short work of his opponents Byron Omondi (Kenya) 6/1 6/0, upset 2nd seed Wycliffe Okenye (Kenya) 6/2 6/4, and beat top seed Ronex Otieno (Kenya) 6/1 6/2 to take the Boys Under 14s. Wycliffe Okenye was third. The girls Under 12s was an exciting array for matches in a 16-draw that saw Alissa Thakker meet Tatiana Szapary (Austria) in the finals, winning 4/1 4/0. Little known Elizabeth Aluoch was third, after beating favourite Prisha Shah 5-3. The Boys 10s discovered new talent, with Kael Shah winning all matches, and closely followed by Hilary Atsango who lost to him 4-11 in their final. Ian Okungu was third.

The four-day event which attracted 74 entries, displayed major talent from some of the best children from Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania, UK and Austria. The Kenya Lawn Tennis Association (KLTA) Chairman, Mrs. Paurvi Rawal, was on hand to give prizes at the closing event and encouraged players to continue to play tournaments, confirming that this tournament will receive recognition and ranking by the association. Th tournament concludes this year's East Africa Safari Junior Tennis Camp, which was sponsored by Sadili val's partners, who included Tamarind Group, Sarova Group, Millfield School, and Virgin Atlantic, amongst others.

Helping Build Tennis in the Slums

If you would like to help us improve their court check out our Globalgiving site: http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/build-tennis-and-dreams-in-the-kibera-slums-kenya/

Anne Guerrant World No. 11 Volunteers at Sadili

Former World Number 11 Anne Guerrant, was in Kenya recently on official duty for her Foundation that funds low income generating households, and took time to run a tennis clinic at Sadili Oval, also donating tennis equipment to Sadili's Kibera Programme. Anne was impressed by the work that the centre does in developing youth, and promised to etur again in the near future.

EAST AFRICA JUNIOR TENNIS OPEN AT SADILI

                               EAST AFRICA JUNIOR TENNIS OPEN AT SADILI BEGINS

                               

RESULTS AS AT 16^TH AUGUST 2012

BSU-10

HILARY ATSANGO

Kael Shah bt Hillary Atsango 11/4

Kael Shah  bt Ian Okungu 11/1

Kael Shah  bt Peter Kiama 11/2

Kael Shah  bt Evans Juma 11/0

Hillary Atsango bt Ian Okungu 11/4

Hillary Atsango bt Peter Kiama 11/9

Hillary Atsango bt Evans Juma 11/3

Ian Okungu bt Peter Kiama 11/10

Ian Okungu bt Evans Juma 11/4

Peter Kiama  bt Evans Juma 11/4

Winne:Kael Shah

Runner up: Hillary Atsango

GSU-10

Alice Ayoma bt Sharon Anyango 11/3

Alice Ayoma bt Faith Mueni 11/3

Prisha Shah bt Faith Mueni 11/3

Prisha Shah bt Alice Ayoma 11/7

Faith Mueni bt Sharon Anyango 11/4

Prrsha Shah bt Sharon Anyango 11/0

Winner: Prisha Shah

Runner up: Alice Ayoma

TATIANA SZAPARY

BSU-12

Keean Shah v/s Kevin Kageche 4/0,4/0

Keean Shah v/s Antony Owita 4/0,5/4(4)

Keean Shah v/s Davis Matanda 6/4,4/0

Keean Shah v/s Kael Shah 4/2, 0/4,10/6

Kevin Gageche v/s Antony Owita 3/5,0/4

Kevin Gageche v/s Davis Matanda(Not yet)

Kevin Gageche v/s Kael Shah ¼,0/4

Antony Owita v/s Davis Matanda(Not yet)

Antony Owita v/s Kael Shah 4/2,5/3

Davis Matanda v/s Kael Shah 4/0,5/4(2)

GSU-12

Quarter Finals

Tatiana Szapary v/s Cassia Seth-smith 4/0,4/0

Elizabeth Sheila v/s Elizabeth Aluoch 4/0,4/0

Alissa Thakker v/s Mary Sophie 4/0,4/0

Prisha Shah v/s Michelle Wambui 4/0,4/2

Semi Finals

Tatiana Szapary v/s Elizabeth Aluoch 4/3,4/1

Alissa Thakker v/s Prisha Shah 4/0,4/0

Elizabeth Aluoch v/s Prisha Shah(Not yet)

Finals

Tatiana Szapary v/s Alissa Thakker (Not yet)

BSU-14

Quarter Finals

Ronex Otieno v/s Charles Ochieng 6/0,6/1

CHIZI MUTSUMI

Sebastian Szapary v/s Sylvester Juma 2/6,1/6

Shivan Shah v/s Byron Omondi 6/1,6/0

David Mukhwana v/s Wycliffe Okenye 2/6,4/6

Semi Finals

Ronex Otieno v/s Sylvester Juma (Not yet)

Wcliffe Okenye v/s Shivan Shah (Not yet)

BSU-16

Quarter Finals

Ayesiga Henry v/s David Mukwana 6/4,7/5

Ronex Otieno v/s Robert Kasombo 0/6,6/7(1)

Amon Muinde v/s Wycliffe Okenye 6/0,6/3

Shivan Shah v/s John Lutaaya 3/6,5/7

Semi Finals

Henry Ayesiga v/s Robert Kasombo (Not yet)

Amon Muinde v/s John Lutaaya(Not yet)

GSU-16 Round Robin

Chizi Mutsumi v/s Melisa Brown (Not yet)

Chizi Mutsumi v/s Antonia Szapary 6/4,6/1

Melisa Brown v/s Antonia Szapary (Not yet)

BSU-18

Quarter Finals

Amadi Kagoma v/s Sebastian Szapary 6/0,6/2

Amon Muinde v/s Henry Ayesiga 4/6,7/6,10/12

Richard Ooko v/s John Lutaaya 4/6,6/0,15/13

Robert Kasombo v/s Jamin Luvembe 1/6,3/6

Semi Finals

Richard Ooko v/s Jamin Luvembe (Not yet)

Amadi Kagoma v/s Henry Ayesiga (Not yet)

GSU-18

Melisa Brown v/s Lorna Bhwenje 3/6,6/7(4)

Melisa Brown v/s Chizi Mutsumi (Not yet)

Melisa Brown v/s Evelyn Ngoli (Not yet)

Lorna Bhwenje v/s Chizi Mutsumi (Not yet)

Lorna Bhwenje v/s Evelyn Ngoli (Not yet)

Chizi Mutsumi v/s Evelyn Ngoli 6/2,6/0

MATCHES CONTINUE

               

Malezi Top National Secondary School Games!!

Yasin & Henry

Yasin Lila once again dominated in the national leaving an undefeated mark for Malezi School this year. The finals that were held yesterday in Mombasa ended in a short but furious defeat of Emmanuel Orwa from Rift Valley. Yasin who was representing Nairobi province met fellow teammate Henry Ayesiga in the semifinals after what he describes as a disappointing loss for him in the group category to Emmanuel Orwa (4-1). His loss meant that would have to battle it out with Yasin in the Semi-finals rather than the finals. Henry came in an honorable 3rd. But all is not lost as Nairobi (and Malezi School) maintains its name as the defending champions for almost a decade until next year. There was no love lost between both competitors having played against each other the year before. Malezi boys remains undefeated for the 9th year running, as Jamin Luvembe partnered with John Lutaaya, dropping only 6 games in total trounce Central, North Eastern and Eastern Provinces in the group stages, setting up a finals against Western to win 6-0 6-2.
This year for the first time since the program was started 2 years ago the table tennis players made to the Nationals after heartbreaking loss at the provincials last year, ending the hopes and dreams of the last years team. 

Tennis Results
Nairobi boys Singles 1 - Yasin Shabani
1. 4-0 vs central 22. 4-0 vs coast 13. 4-0 vs nyanza 14. 4-1 vs eastern 15. 4-0 vs rift valley 26. 4-0 vs north eastern 17. 4-0 vs western 2 semi finals- 6-2 vs nairobi 2 finals- 6-0,6-0 vs central 1
Nairobi Boys Singles 2  - Henry Ayesiga 
1.  2-4 vs central 12. 4-0 vs coast 23. 4-0 vs nyanza 24. 4-0 vs eastern 25. 4-0 vs rift valley 16. 4-0 vs north eastern 27. 4-0 vs western 1semi finals- 2-6 vs nairobi 3rd place 6-2 vs central 2
Nairobi Boys Doubles - Jamin Luvembe/John Lutaaya
1. 4-0 vs central 
2. 4-1 vs north eastern
3. 4-0 vs eatern
semi final- 6-3 vs western
finals- 6-0, 6-2 Central

Julie Simkins At Safari Junior Tennis Camp

Julie Simkins, Tennis Professional is in Kenya, for the East Africa Safari Junior Tennis Camp, courtesy of Virgin Atlantic Airways, Sarova Group and Tamarind Group and powered by Dartfish. The camp, which has attracted 67 talented boys and girls from various communities, for three days, ending on Thursday, and will be followed by the East Africa Junior Open.

 Julie has been coaching at Millfield for fourteen years and in that time there have been many highlights. Most notably, coaching 2 national champions, winning several national schools age group titles and representing Great Britain at the World Student Games in 2007, as women's team coach. She is a former World ranked player in both singles and doubles (1995-96) and have won 2 conference titles whilst representing Arkansas State and Northeast Louisiana Universities. She now competes in veterans competitions and have had the privilege of representing my country (Great Britain) in the over 35's World Team Championships in 2009. 
















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contact us at sadilioval@gmail.com

Millfield Coaches Introduce Rugby

Safari Rugby Camp came light when Paul Reed arrived on the 13th August and took to the pitch for an exciting week of introducing rugby to young children from Sadili's programs. Paul to trains the extraordinarily successful U15 rugby teams at Millfield School, UK, quickly got onto Sadili Oval Sports Academy's pitch and introduced rugby to a group of Under 12 boys for the first time, and within one day, got them really keen and excited to play. He was joined by Millfield School's Sports Director, Dr. Graeme Maw. 
Both coaches are in Kenya as part of a partnership with Sadili Oval to develop sports, in partnership with Virgin Atlantic, Embassy of France, Tamarind, and Sarova Hotels Group, amongst others. Special mention must be made of the Embassy of France for supporting the start of a rugby school at Sadili, from which the program began.

Paul played rugby for Saracens, Cambridge University, England Students and Hong Kong. He has coached Cranleigh school 1st XV and 7's sides and Surrey county U15's -U18's but now focuses on developing U15 rugby players at Millfield and teaching Accounting and Economics. 


Graeme is Sports Director at Millfield School. Graeme attained Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral degrees in sports science, physiology and management. He progressed to positions of performance manager or director with Queensland Swimming, British Triathlon and the Welsh Rugby Union, playing leading roles at multiple Olympic and Commonwealth Games along the way, and leading British Triathlon to the forefront of the world.

Smashers Challenge Cup Ends On A High Note

Amadi Kagoma

The 3^rd edition of the annual Safari Junior Tennis Camp concluded run by Sadili Oval at Karen Country Club, with Amadi Kagoma (Bur) beating Barakamfitiye Yusuf (Bur) in a closely contested final, 6-3 3-6 11-9, in the Boys 18s and Melissa Brown downing Chizi Mutsumi 6-3 6-7(4) 1—6 to lift the Girls Under 18s.

Gemma Gauntlett beat Alice Ayoma 6/3, while Emma Trent cleared Sheila Elizabeth our of the way 6/1 to set up a finalin which Gaunlett won 6-1 to take the girls Under 12 title.

In the boys under 14, favourite Sneha Kotecha beat Wycliffe Okenye 6-2 6-2 in the group stages before losing to Sylvester Juma 0-6 0-6 in the semis. Ronex Otieno was made to work and only just slipped through in his semi-final match against Wycliff Okenye, 6-2 2-6 10-8, then again meeting tough challenge in the finals, to beat Sylvester Juma 6-7(3) 6-6 10-8. The round robin tournament, which is a warm-up for the East Africa Junior Open, was well attended, with a total of 37 players between 12 and 18 years.

Other results were as follows:

BS 12  Round Robin

Rishi Patel

Antony Owiti- Davis Matanda                                           6-4 ;

Davis Matanda - Nigel Odhiambo                                     6-3 ;

Antony Owiti - Nigel Odhiambo                                        7-6(4) ;

Davis Matanda - Kageche Kevin                                       6-1 ;

Antony Owiti -Kageche Kevin                                           6-1 ;

Nigel Odhiambo - Kageche Kevin                                     6-1 ;

            GS 12 - Group A Round Robin

Gauntlett Gemma  - Baraka Riziki                                      6-1 ;

Gauntlett Gemma - Sheila Elizabeth                                    6-0 ;                                                                   

Sheila Elizabeth - Baraka Riziki                                          6-1 ;

Trent Emma - Ayoma Alice                                               6-1 ;

Trent Emma - Trent Kayle                                                 6-2 ;

Ayoma Alice - Trent Kayle                                                6-1 ;

SF

Gauntlett Gemma - Ayoma Alice                                      6-3 ;

Trent Emma - Sheila Elizabeth                                          6-1 ;

Final

Gauntlett Gemma - Trent Emma                                       6-1 ;

the story continues...

Making The African Stars Part I: Basketball and Tennis Talent Tell Their Story

A few of the players share their stories, hopes and dreams for the future!! Some of them have graduated and made it, while others continue to work towards their goals.

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Leave a comment and we'll definitely get back to you!! Thanks!

Virgin to Jet In Top Coaches For East Africa’s Top Junior Events

Virgin Atlantic Airways, will be jetting in 3 top coaches on Monday 13th August to provide expertise at a one week training camp in partnership with Sadili Oval. Millfield School the top UK sports school will be bringing in three professional coaches, who will be working with local talent in tennis, fitness and rugby, in what will be one of the best sports camps in the region. In addition Kenya's own International Basketball Proessional Coach, Ronnie Owino, will be heading an excellent local team in running a top performance basketball camp. The camps, which run at Sadili Oval and in Kibera, is expected to bring in about 100 youth aged between 8 and 18 years and will run from 11^th to the 19^th August 2012. Scholarships have been granted to children from around the region. Other sponsors include Sarova Group, Carnivore, Professional Tennis Registry and Dartfish.

Meet the Coaches:

Julie Simkins, Tennis Professional

Julie has been coaching at Millfield for fourteen years and in that time there have been many highlights. Most notably, coaching 2 national champions, winning several national schools age group titles and representing Great Britain at the World Student Games in 2007, as women's team coach. She is a former World ranked player in both singles and doubles (1995-96) and have won 2 conference titles whilst representing Arkansas State and Northeast Louisiana Universities. She now competes in veterans competitions and has had the privilege of representing  Great Britain in the over 35's World Team Championships in 2009. We came fourth.

the story continues...

Why Serena Williams Visited Sadili

See why Sadili is so important to African Tennis!!

Safari Junior Tennis Camp Kicks off!!!

On Monday 6 2012 The Safari Junior Tennis Camp kicked off once again. It is the largest tennis camp in east and central Africa having hosted many children of different ages from 6 to 18 years. The camp is held at Sadili Oval Sports Club and has been going on for the last twelve years and has had many famous coaches come to volunteer including Paul Holbach former coach to Lindsay Davenport, William Murray former coach to the Williams Sisters, Former Cornell University Coach David Geatz, Dan James USTA national wheelchair tennis manager and many others.

Fabrizio Caldarone

Ann Guerrant 

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This years expected top  players are; Fabrizio Caldarone and former world number 11 Ann Guerrant who has played against and beat players like Billie Jean King and Maria Navratilova. Mr. Caldarone has worked with famous players like Maria Sharapova, Ivan Ljubicic, David Ferrer, Juan Carlos Ferrero, Albert Costa, Guillermo Coria, Patrick Rafter, Nicolas Kiefer, Olivier Rochus, Dudi Sela, Davide Sanguinetti, Maria Sharapova,  and Nadia Petrova among others.

Mr. Caldarone is expected to jet in at 1220 on the 7th August, and will spend the first week of the camp working with Kenya’s own, Dr. Liz Odera and her team, on developing young local and regional talent

The East Africa Safari Junior Tennis Camp remains the regions premier platform for showcasing 80 of the region’s talent, and will, this year, have representation from Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan, Rwanda and Burundi. The Camp, sponsored by Virgin Atlantic, Carnivore, Professional Tennis Registry, Dartfish and Head, amongst others  and shall include the following activities:

6 – 10 August 2012: Camp 1 at Sadili Oval Sports Academy
11 – 12 August 2012: Smashers Challenge Tournament at Karen Country Club

13 – 17 August 2012: Camp 2 at Sadili Oval Sports Academy

15 – 17 August 2012: East Africa Junior Tennis Tournament at Sadili Oval Sports Academy  


 Want to know more about our summer camps and activities? 

 Contact us at sadilioval@gmail.com

Interviewing Kenya Team Olivier Kigotho

14 year old Olivier Kigotho has made the national team, barely one year after joining Sadili Talent Training Academy in Langata, Nairobi. Olivier will be representing Kenya at the ITF/CAT U14 Circuit in Burundi and Rwanda from the 6th - 17th August 2012. I caught up with Olivier at Sadili as he stepped off the court following a tough evening training session. For a boy so young, he exuded quiet confidence and smiled a lot, so I was able to plunge quickly into my interview:

J - Why did you switch from playing basketball to playing tennis competitively?

O – Well I had initially played tennis and then started playing basketball because it was closer to home, while I was in school in the USA. Then when I came back to Kenya, I started playing tennis again, because I liked it better.

J - How does it feel to be playing for the national team?

O – It feels really good, like my hard work is playing off.

J - When you started playing tennis again was it your goal to be on the National Team?

O - Not exactly but I didn’t think that I would be on the national team so quickly.

J - Do you have any short or long term goals for tennis?

O- For the short term I want to play well for the national team, and get into my academy team too (which is actually quite hard) and just keep playing well. And long term, I guess, get a tennis scholarship for a college.

J - in the USA? Europe?

O- I'm not really sure, still thinking about it! (smile)

J- Is there any area that you feel you improved on the last year? Or things you would like to see improve?

O - Im not really sure... (shrug)

J- So your are going to Burundi and Rwanda, how do you feel about competing there?

O - Quite nervous, actually

J - About anything in particular or just in general?

O - In general, but I also know most of the players, and its going to be tough.

J - Do you have any particular goals for these competitions? Winning the whole thing? Making it to quarters?

O - Not really just play my best I guess....I just want to stay focused on that, so I train hard

J-  What does it feel like being able to travel to other countries doing something you love?

O – It feels good! I have been exposed to different kinds of places and players. I think its the most important part. I have learned a lot.

J- Which are some of the countries you have played tennis competitions in since you joined Sadili?

O - the UK, Uganda, Burundi, Rawanda, and, well Kenya...

J- Is there a country that you would love to visit for a competition?

O- Yes! Spain, I've heard it has good players and its very nice place! (laugh)

SADILI SOCCER DOWNS LAVINGTON

Sadili Oval Soccer Academy's John Macharia, led the Under 15 team to defend their title today, with this season at the Left Foot Sports Soccer League that will run through July and August this year, trouncing favorites Lavington Primary 2 -1 in the Under 15, with Macharia netting the first goal and team mate Jama, the second.
story continues

Sadili's Jamin Luvembe Makes A First to Davis Cup From Kibera

Jamin Luvembe becomes the first tennis player from Kibera, Africa's largest slum, to play Davis Cup when he joins the Kenya team in Tunisia on the 1st of July 2012. 

Jamin was called in at the last minute to play trials at Nairobi Club, started out as the underdog, but rallied to win all his group-stage matches, qualifying for the semifinals as a firm candidate, and ending up as the runnerup, and 4th player for the team after Ibrahim Kibet. Other other two positions were not contested for, as KLTA had already selected  Faiz and Ishmael Changawa of Mombasa. Ishmael is currently the best ranked junior and has posted impressive results in ITF tournaments. Jamin, who is a student at Malezi School, started playing tennis at 8 years, when his brother, Francis Isiaho, introduced him to Sadili Oval Sports Academy. His sponsor and coach, Dr. Liz Odera says "this is Jamin's dream starting to come true. He has proved that committment and hard work pays. He still has a lot to do to become the player we hope to see, but this is a great step ib gaining experience, and we are very proud of him". Jamin has been put on standby, as funds are awaited for from the government, according to KLTA, so Kenyans may have to wait a little longer if he doesn't travel. Kenya will be play against some great teams, including Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Benin, Zimbabwe, and Cote d'Ivoire. Kenya has barely managed to stay in Group 3 and it is hoped that, by exposing juniors like Ishmael and Jamin, the experience will pay off in a few years.

Summer Holiday Camps 2012

All camps include free supervised art, reading and lifeskills. Scholarships available for all sports, apply early.

TENNIS

NAIROBI TENNIS CAMPS - Sadili Oval Tennis Academy

Tiny Tots: 9.00 – 9.45 a.m., Beginners: 10.00 – 11.00 a.m., Intermediate: 11.30 a.m – 12.30 p.m., Junior Squad: 2.00 p.m., Performance Squad: 3.00 – 4.30 p.m. Kshs. 3,500 per week

Week 1: 9 – 13 July 2012

Week 2: 16 – 20 July 2012

Week 3: 23 – 27 July 2012

Week 4: 20 – 24 August 2012

8-SERIES JUNIOR TENNIS TOURNAMENT number 4: 7 July

A Level D ranking Tennis Africa event for beginner-intermediate players in the Under 6, Under 8, Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, Over 14 year categories, boys and girls will be held at Sadili Oval.

Junior Training at Karen Country Club: 16 – 20 July (members only). 9.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m.: 5-10 years – Tennis, 10.30 a.m. – 11.30 a.m.: 11 – 16 years – Tennis, 9.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m.: 11 – 16 years – Soccer, 10.30 a.m. – 11.30 a.m.: 5-10 years – Soccer. Kshs. 3,000 per sport per week.

Junior Training at Nyali Golf and Country Club Mombasa: 16 – 20 July 2012 (half-day camps): 4-7yrs: 9:00 am to 10:30 am. Ages 8-14: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Charge:  Kshs. 3000 per person.

EA SAFARI JUNIOR TENNIS CAMP: 6 – 17 August 2012

East Africa’s No. 1 Camp for 6 years to 18 years & includes high performance training for tournament players. Recognised by partners UNEP, Global Sports Alliance and Professional Tennis Registry.
Top Coaches from Africa, Europe and USA will attend. Entry fee: Kshs. 18000 or US$ 320 (non residents) which includes refreshments and lunch. Full boarding facility available at Kshs. 25,500 or US$ 320 (non-residents). This charge covers full board (all meals) from 6th – 17^th August 2012. Scholarships available. Entries close on 30^th June.

SMASHERS CHALLENGE TOURNAMENT NO. 3: 11 - 12 August 2012

A Level B ranking Tennis Africa event for intermediate-advanced players in the  U12, U14, U16, U18 & U21 categories, boys and girls will be held at Karen Country Club and Sadili Oval.

EAST AFRICA JUNIOR TENNIS OPEN 2011 15 – 17 August 2012
A Tennis Africa Tournament for intermediate and advanced players in the Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18 categories, boys and girls.

SWIMMING

BARRACUDA SWIMMING CAMP – SADILI OVAL

Week 1: 9 – 13 July 2012

Week 2: 16 – 20 July 2012

Week 3: 23 – 27 July 2012

Week 4: 20 – 24 August 2012

Weekdays from 11.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. Introduction to water skills, Fundamental Aquatic Skills, Stroke Development, Stroke Improvement, Stroke Refinement. Kshs. 3,500 per person per week.

BARRACUDA PRACTICE GALA– 24^th August 2012 afternoon. Lots of prizes!

BASKETBALL

ANNUAL EA BASKETBALL FUTURE CHAMPS SUMMER CAMP:

13 -16 August 2012

Top USA, UK and Africa basketball coaches will be running this camp. Ages: 9 to 21 years. Entry fee: Kshs. 18,000 or US$ 320 (non residents) which includes refreshments and lunch. Full boarding facility available at Kshs. 25,500 or US$ 345 (non-residents) for the players. This charge covers full board (including breakfast and supper) from 12^th - 16^th August 2012. Scholarships available. Recruiters have been invited to attend. Entries close on 30^th July.

12^th August: Arrival and registration

13^th and 14^th August: Youth basketball clinics.

15^th August: Basketball Coaches Conference

Morning: coaches to discuss techniques and new trends, share experiences, with on-court presentations. Networking luncheon. Afternoon: Junior basketball clinic.

16^th August: 3 on 3, and All-Star Game, Awards.

17^th August: Coach’s visit to Nairobi National Park, Elephant Park, Giraffe Manor and Bomas of Kenya.

AEROBICS/FITNESS/GYM/DANCE

AEROBICS, GYM, DANCE – SADILI OVAL

Weekdays from 10.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon Kshs. 3,500 per week.

You’ll learn power walking, kids-step, aero-step, cardio-funk, ndombolo systems and others. Circuit gym for strength building and conditioning.

Week 1: 9 – 13 July 2012

Week 2: 16 – 20 July 2012

Week 3: 23 – 27 July 2012

Week 4: 20 – 24 August 2012

SOCCER/RUGBY

ANNUAL EA SOCCER FUTURE CHAMPS SUMMER CAMP

30^th July to 3^rd August 2012

Under 7: 9.30 a.m., U11: 10.30 a.m., U15: 11.30 a.m., U17: 2.00 p.m., Performance Squad: 3.00 – 4.30 p.m.

Qualified FIFA – trained coaches in attendance. Meet some of Kenya’s stars too! Kshs. 3,500 per week.

ANNUAL EA RUGBY FUTURE CHAMPS SUMMER CAMP

27^th to 31^st August 2012

Under 7: 9.30 a.m., u12: 10.30 a.m., U14: 11.30 a.m., U17: 2.00 p.m., Performance Squad: 3.00 – 4.30 p.m. Train with the best and meet some of Kenya Rugby stars! Kshs. 3,500 per week.

NON-SPORT ACTIVITIES

FRENCH/PORTUGUESE/ENGLISH/SWAHILI CLASSES: July and August Kshs. 3000 per week. Daily from 10.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. You learn to use the everyday spoken language. Good for those who hope to visit and play your chosen sport. Scholarships available.

SUBJECT TUITION: All subjects, experienced teachers from top schools. Charges: 1-2 subjects 3,500 per week; 3-4 subjects 4,500 per week.

COMPUTER CLASSES: Kshs. 2,500 per week

Community library is open all summer at Sadili, enjoy it!

Music classes: learn to play an instrument!

Classes are available at Sadili for most instruments, run by excellent teachers.

FULL BOARD ACCOMMODATION

MALEZI SCHOOL: Charge: Kshs. 1850 per day, Kshs. 12,500 per week.  GONA SUITES: Charge: 4,000 a day or Kshs. 42,000 for two weeks.

HOLIDAY SPORTS CAMPS – SADILI OVAL SPORTS ACADEMY

Off Kitengela Road, next to Malezi School, Langata

P. O. Box 8477, Nairobi 00100

Mobile: 0721-556062/0727-843864

askus@sadili.com ; www.sadili.com