With schools closed for the April holidays, idle time and the risks that come with it, from petty crime to substance use, tend to rise sharply among teenagers in Gituamba. Our response, now in its second year, is the Gituamba Bridge Cup, a small neighborhood football league for boys and girls aged under 15.
Six teams of twelve players each were drawn from different sections of Gituamba and nearby Kasarani estates, coached by volunteer young men and women who played competitively in secondary school or college. Matches are played every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday on the open ground behind the chief's camp, with a small volunteer committee handling scheduling and basic first aid.
Beyond the football itself, each match day opens with a 15-minute talk on a rotating topic, ranging from staying in school and avoiding drug abuse to basic hygiene and conflict resolution, delivered by a volunteer or an invited guest such as a community health promoter.
“My son used to disappear all day during holidays and I never knew where. Now I know exactly where he is every match day, and he comes home talking about what the coach taught, not just the score.”
— Parent of a league participant
Last season's inaugural champions, the Riverside Eagles, will defend their title this year against five challengers, including two newly formed girls' teams, a deliberate expansion after last year's tournament drew strong interest from girls who wanted their own competitive league rather than mixed teams.
We are seeking sponsors for jerseys, a proper ball supply, and a small trophy for this season's winners. Local businesses interested in sponsoring a team can find our contact details on the Get Involved page.
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