Budding handball player Wakukha eyes place in KDF

Promising player Brian Wakukha is hopeful of joining Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) handball men’s team after switching allegiance from Strathmore University last year.

Wakukha, who was a third year student pursuing a degree course in Information Technology through scholarship, abandoned the varsity side in hope of being employed in the disciplined forces.

However, the midfielder failed to get the nod after it emerged he had tattoos which are not allowed in KDF.

"I had one year remaining to the completion of my studies and here was an offer of employment with Kenya Defence Forces. I decided to join the forces but unfortunately, I did not get the job at that time ," said the Kimilili Boys Secondary School alumnus.

"I had no choice but to go and remove the tattoos. I'm now hoping that I will be employed later this year during their intake set for either October or November. I don't regret leaving Strathmore because I believe it was the best choice."

Wakukha who will be turning 22 next month has, however, joined Kenyatta University (KU) to pursue a different course - a degree in Bachelor of Commerce.

"We have an arrangement with both sides. I will be playing for KDF during the Kenya Handball Federation National League and for KU in the Kenya University Sports Association (Kusa) Games. But in all this, I hope that I will make a debut in the national team because I know I have what it takes," said Wakukha.

The men's national team and Strathmore coach Peter Mwathi acknowledged Wakukha is a good player but was quick to note that he has to put his act together.

"Wakukha was my player at the Strathmore and I think he made a wrong move to abandon studies to join KDF at that time. But again he had his own reasons and I respect that. Wakukha has the potential of turning professional and I hope that he realises that quickly," said Mwathi.