The 2nd Edition of the Thome No. 1 Professionals Football Tournament came to a thrilling close on Saturday, August 24, 2025, at St. Peter’s Nduundune Secondary School, Ilusya Location, Ikanga/Kyatune Ward, with Nduundune FC crowned champions after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Koma FC.

The two-day tournament, which kicked off on Friday, August 23, brought together 9 local teams: Nduundune FC, Muikiio FC, Makele FC, Kwa Song’e FC, Nzalani FC, Matua FC, Koma FC, Katulani FC, and Ndithini FC.

The grand Final ended 1-1 in normal time before Nduundune FC triumphed 4-3 in penalties, sending their fans into jubilation. In the playoff for third place, 1st Edition defending champions Kwa Song’e FC bounced back with a convincing 3-0 victory over Muikiio FC.

READ ALSO: The SMP CUP Football Tournament Concludes with Ikanga United FC Crowned Champions After a Dramatic Comeback Win Against Nzalani FC

The winners walked away with Ksh. 9,000, a full branded jersey, and a playing soccer ball, while runners-up Koma FC pocketed Ksh. 4,000, a branded jersey, and a ball. Third-place finishers Kwa Song’e FC received a branded jersey and a ball.

The tournament was not only about football but also served as a youth empowerment platform, focusing on five key areas including: Career Mentorship– equipping students with career awareness and planning tools. They also did Drug Abuse & Mental Health– promoting healthy living and resilience. Relationships– guiding youth in building meaningful connections and Scholarship Opportunities– linking learners to academic advancement pathways.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, Thome No. 1 Professionals Chairman, Mr. Dennis Mukuu, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “Our main aim for having this tournament was to engage our youth, talk to them, and give them a platform to showcase their talents. We want to keep them busy with positive activities so that they don’t fall into drug abuse or negative influences.”

Mr. Mukuu also revealed ambitious plans for the 3rd Edition in December, announcing that professional club scouts will be invited to spot and nurture raw talent: “We dream of bringing scouts from top Kenyan clubs so that they can identify young talents from our area. Who knows? The next big football star might come from here.”

The event was graced by notable leaders and community figures, reflecting its growing impact. Kitui County Agriculture and Fisheries Chief Officer, Hon. Gladys Mami Kivoto, donated nine footballs to all participating teams and a branded full jersey for the winners (Nduundune FC). Ikanga/Kyatune Ward MCA, Hon. Cyrus Musyoka Sonko, also supported the initiative by awarding Ksh. 2,000 to each of the nine teams.

Other guests included Mr. Dennis Kaluku (Thome No. 1 Professionals Vice chairman), Makele Sub-chief Mr. Paul Muluyu, Former MCA Jamhuri Mwango, Freddy Mutia (Young Professionals Mobilizer), Lenah Muema (Youth Mentorship & Career Guidance), Isaac Kyalo, Joshua Muema, and Morris Kimilu.

Beyond sports, Thome No. 1 Professionals continue to engage the wider community through civic education, enlightening residents on governance, leadership qualities, and the importance of informed electoral choices.

The 2nd Edition of the Thome No. 1 Professionals Football Tournament not only crowned Nduundune FC as champions but also strengthened the vision of using sports as a tool for empowerment, unity, and community growth in Ikanga/Kyatune Ward.

Ends///