KE-2025-004 

All Sports Academy - Africa attends MLK Day Tourney

The Martin Luther King Jr. Jackie Robinson Day Baseball Tournament project was successfully executed with the support of Angels at Bat. The donation of $286 enabled All Sports Academy Africa to transport and accommodate our contingent of 19 players and 4 teachers from Kiambu West to JKUAT, Juja. Our team departed on Saturday morning and was hosted at Corner Brook School in the evening of the first day of the tournament, which provided accommodation and meals at a cost of KES 13,200. This arrangement ensured that the players were well-rested and prepared for the second day of the tournament.

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At the tournament:

• Knock outs: Our team was scheduled to face Makueni United and secured a victory since the team failed to show up for the tournament.

• Semi-Finals: Our team faced Grandsons of Abraham and secured a victory, advancing to the finals.

• FINALS: We played against Alice in Africa, who won the match, leaving us in 2nd place Overall (Runners up).

This achievement marks a notable improvement compared to the previous tournament, where our team was eliminated at the group stage. Securing second place demonstrates the growth and resilience of our players, and highlights the impact of external support in enabling participation and success.

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The event was not only a sporting success but also a learning experience for our learners, fostering teamwork, discipline, and confidence. The exposure gained will serve as motivation for future tournaments, where we aim to secure the championship trophy.

LESSONS LEARNED:

1. Institutional Support Matters: As a new academy supporting learners from vulnerable communities, external partnerships like Angels at Bat are vital in enabling participation in competitive events.

2. Improved Performance: Advancing to the finals and securing 2nd place demonstrates the team’s growth and validates the importance of consistent training and exposure.

3. Logistics Planning: Accommodation at Corner Brook School proved cost-effective and convenient. Future tournaments will benefit from early booking and structured travel arrangements.

4. Community Motivation: The success inspired not only the players but also th