This archive report was first published on 25 July 2020.
July 25, 2020, marked a turning point for the Kenya Women's Premier League (KWPL) as it was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For Ugandan international and Vihiga Queens midfielder Joan Abirye, this decision was both a relief and a disappointment.
Although Abirye was away from home, she expressed gratitude towards her club's management for their support during this challenging time. 'They pay rent for me, provide whatever I might be lacking. I really appreciate because in this situation many foreign players are suffering but I am good,' she said.
Abirye acknowledged that calling off the league was the right decision, but she was also looking forward to her first taste of Kenyan football in the 2020 season. The 2020 season was scrapped after the first round of games, with defending champions Vihiga Queens not taking to the field at all.
Despite the cancellation, Abirye has been following a personal exercise routine, which includes jogging, home workouts, and ball work. She noted that personal training is different from group training, with a lower intensity level. The club has also been engaging with the players throughout this period.
'I have been doing some personal training like jogging, home workouts and wall ball work to keep my fitness,' Abirye said. 'Personal training is kind of light because when I feel like tired I immediately take a break unlike the usual training.'
