Kenya Handball Premier League giants Ulinzi Shooters and Ulinzi Sharks are taking their preseason preparations beyond the court, with the two sides embarking on a community-focused tour of Western Kenya aimed at nurturing talent and growing the sport at the grassroots level.The men's side, Ulinzi Shooters, opened their playing schedule with a friendly match against national schools champions Musingu High School on Saturday before facing Kakamega Flickers Handball Club on Sunday, as both fixtures combined competition with mentorship activities in the region.##NAJAVA_MECA_9872958##Western Kenya has long been one of the country's most productive handball talent hubs, with many players featuring for Kenya's top-flight clubs tracing their roots to the region. Ulinzi's visit therefore offers young players a chance to interact with elite athletes while also allowing some members of the military side to reconnect with the communities that shaped their careers.Beyond the matches, Ulinzi Shooters and the women's side, Ulinzi Sharks, have been conducting coaching clinics, mentorship sessions, talent identification exercises, and community engagement programmes aimed at inspiring the next generation of players.Harambee Starlets face must-win Algeria test in bid to keep WAFCON dream aliveThe initiative forms part of the club's wider commitment to grassroots sports development and reflects its belief that the future of Kenyan handball lies in empowering young athletes and strengthening structures away from the major urban centres.Head coach Nixon Oyaro said the tour was designed to give back to communities that continue to produce some of Kenya's finest handball talent."Western Kenya has always been a rich source of players for Kenyan handball, and we felt it was important to come back and invest in these communities," said Oyaro."Our objective is not only to prepare for the new season but also to mentor young players, share knowledge, and inspire them to believe they can reach the highest level. We are coaching future stars, identifying talent, and showing these youngsters the values that sport can teach: discipline, teamwork, respect, and leadership."Harambee Starlets still optimistic of WAFCON progression ahead of final group matchOyaro added that exposure to top-level players can play a key role in motivating young athletes."Sometimes all a young player needs is an opportunity to interact with someone they admire. Every drill, every conversation, and every session we hold here is about building stronger players, stronger people, and ultimately a stronger future for Kenyan handball," he said.The tour has also provided a valuable team-building opportunity for the Ulinzi squads as they continue preparations for the upcoming league campaign.For the club, however, success extends beyond victories on the court. Through mentorship, community engagement, and talent development, Ulinzi Shooters and Ulinzi Sharks hope to leave a lasting legacy in a region that remains central to the growth of handball in Kenya.Asamoah Gyan reveals how Africa can develop more football talent
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