Gatundu Youth FC Wins National U-15 Schools Cup with All-Orphan Squad

Underdog story of the year: Gatundu Youth FC, a team of 15 orphans from the *Tumaini Children’s Home*, lifted the National U-15 Schools Football Cup on August 3, 2025, defeating elite St. Mary’s Yala 2–1 in the final at Kasarani. Coached by volunteer teacher James Mwangi and sponsored by local dairy farmers, the boys trained before dawn on a rocky pitch—using a ball patched with tire rubber. Captain Brian Kimani (14) scored both goals, dedicating them to his late parents. Their journey—chronicled in *Citizen TV*’s *Hope on the Pitch*—mobilized KSh 8 million in scholarships and gear donations. FKF waived registration fees for 50 children’s homes nationwide. President Ruto invited the team to State House, announcing a *Safe Spaces for Sport* fund for vulnerable youth.