In a heartwarming display of support, President William Ruto officially flagged off Kenya’s Junior Starlets at State House on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, ahead of their departure to Spain. The team is gearing up for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, marking a monumental moment for Kenyan football.

Donning a personalized number 9 jersey with "WSR" emblazoned on the back, the Head of State fully immersed himself in the occasion. He joined the team on the State House grounds for a brief kickabout session, showing his enthusiasm for the sport and the young players. 

The energy on the field was palpable as President Ruto kicked the ball around with the 23-member squad, offering a symbolic start to their journey.

Junior Starlets coach Mildred Cheche has explained the absence of Claire Meris and Mitshelle Waithera from the World Cup-bund team after their exclusion had raised eyebrows.

After the light-hearted training, Ruto waved off the team, who are set to leave on Thursday, September 19, for an 11-day training camp in Spain. Following their camp, the team will continue their preparations in the Dominican Republic ahead of the World Cup.

The ceremony at State House was graced by high-profile figures, including Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Principal Secretary Peter Tum, and Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Nick Mwendwa. 

Mwendwa led the team in presenting President Ruto with a framed white jersey signed by all the players—a gesture of gratitude for his unwavering support. The President was also gifted another jersey, this time bearing the number 12, symbolizing his role as the "12th man" behind the team.

Kenya U-17 coach has analysed England, North Korea and Mexico as her charges prepare to make history in the Dominican Republic next October.

In his address, CS Murkomen lauded the team’s achievements, affirming the bright future ahead for Kenyan football. “This is a testimony that the future of football in Kenya is great and they are going to do a good job,” Murkomen stated, brimming with confidence in the young squad.

Ruto, too, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishments, emphasizing the significance of their participation on the world stage. 

“Congratulations for achieving this feat. What you are going to participate in is historic. When the history of football in Kenya around the World Cup is written, your names will be in gold,” he stated, motivating the Junior Starlets to carry the nation’s hopes with pride.

As Kenya continues to make strides on the global football stage, the Junior Starlets’ upcoming journey promises to be a defining chapter, not only for the team but for the country’s football future. With the backing of the nation’s top leadership and a squad brimming with talent, they are set to shine at the World Cup.

Salim Babu has picked several familiar faces from the side that reached the finals of the CECAFA U18 Championships last year in his provisional squad for the AFCON U20 qualifiers.

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