Nyalenda FC defeated the hosts, Parks Boy Child Football Club, 2–1 to lift the title of the third edition of the Parks Foundation Tournament, staged at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Kisumu on Saturday, December 3, 2026.
The closely contested final saw Nyalenda FC show composure and tactical discipline to overcome a spirited Parks Boy Child FC side, sealing the championship and capping an impressive run in the grassroots competition.
Speaking after the match, Nyalenda FC captain Geoffrey Omondi lauded Parks Foundation for organizing the tournament, urging the organizers to consider hosting it at least three times a year instead of annually. Omondi said the competition plays a critical role in nurturing talent, keeping young players engaged, and providing a platform to showcase their abilities.
The skipper, a pupil at Kosawo Primary School in Manyatta, Kisumu, also delivered a strong message on the importance of education, reminding fellow learners that sports alone is not enough.
“I want to thank Parks Foundation for holding this tournament. It has given us an opportunity to showcase our talents, build ourselves and stay busy. I would request them to organize it at least three times a year. I also urge fellow learners to work very hard in school and make their parents proud, because talent or sports alone is not enough, there is life after sports,” said Omondi.
Parks Boy Child Foundation founder Rachel Owuor congratulated the teams for exhibiting high levels of discipline and top-notch football talent, noting that the foundation was established three years ago to educate and empower the boy child, who she said has often been neglected.
“We empower the boy child, with education as our core focus. This organization started three years ago. Through this tournament, which brings together talent, teamwork and purpose, sports builds discipline, confidence and character. We are preparing young people not only for competition, but for life,” Owuor said.
While acknowledging the gains made in empowering the girl child, Owuor said, the boy child has increasingly been left behind, struggling silently under pressure, limited mentorship, and a lack of safe spaces. She noted that the foundation is bridging this gap by using sports to guide boys into responsible, respectful, and purposeful members of society.
“Much effort has rightly gone into supporting the girl child, and that progress has transformed lives and strengthened communities. But we must also acknowledge a growing concern—the boy child is being left behind. Many boys face expectations without mentorship and challenges without guidance. Through sports, we can shape boys into men of integrity, respect and purpose,” she said, thanking partners for their continued support.
Owuor added that growing up in Manyatta slums exposed her to the challenges facing the boy child, an experience that inspired her to establish the foundation to champion their welfare.
Executive board member Maurice Matunga echoed the sentiments, saying the foundation was formed after recognizing that while the girl child received significant attention, the boy child remained largely neglected. He said the foundation engages boys in outdoor activities during school holidays to shield them from drug abuse, while also offering mentorship and educational talks.
At the end of the tournament, both champions, Nyalenda FC and hosts Parks Boy Child FC, were feted for their outstanding performances and contributions to the success of the event.
