What's Happening?
Jackie Juma, the head coach of Kenya's Under-20 women's football team, emphasizes the importance of age-grade continuity for the development of women's football in Kenya. Juma has integrated players from last year's Under-17 World Cup team into the Under-20 squad, with plans for some to advance to the senior team. This strategy aims to maintain a consistent development pathway for young players, ensuring that talent is nurtured from a young age and not lost as players transition between age groups.
Why It's Important?
The approach advocated by Juma is crucial for strengthening women's football in Kenya by creating a seamless transition for players as they progress through different age levels. This continuity can lead to a more cohesive and competitive national team, capable of performing well on international stages such as the World Cup. By investing in young talent early, Kenya can build a robust pipeline of skilled players, enhancing the country's reputation in women's football.
What's Next?
The Under-20 team aims to become the second Kenyan team to qualify for the World Cup, drawing inspiration from the Under-17 players who competed in the Dominican Republic. Continued focus on age-grade continuity will be essential for achieving this goal, with Juma and her coaching team working to ensure that young players are adequately prepared for higher levels of competition.
