July 8, 2023 was an important milestone for the Nairobi Field of Dreams at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) as it transformed into a hub of activity and excitement during the inaugural "Stars & Stripes Softball Celebration."
The event marked an iconic celebration of America's Independence Day and Kenya's burgeoning interest in baseball and softball. It was not just a tournament but a moment to take a brief pause and celebrate the community that has come together to build the Nairobi Field of Dreams.
The first of its kind baseball and softball field complex in East Africa is still under construction and is the collaborative brainchild of JKUAT and the community-driven non-profit, IfWeBuildIt.org. July 8th's festivities however became a jovial battleground for talent, sportsmanship, and camaraderie. Local and international athletes, celebrities, and professionals converged on the field, showcasing a blend of competitive spirit and mutual respect for the sport.
Sponsors included:
MbeleFX - lead event sponsor
Power Financial “Power Ball” home run contest sponsor
Optimum Suppliers Printing Sponsor
Wima Sports Media Partner
Mascor (K) Ltd (John Deere) Community Partner
Among the enthusiasts was Darshan Chandaria, CEO and Director of Chandaria Industries, an avowed supporter of the game.
"The turnout is nothing short of phenomenal. It's a testament to the universal love for the sport and the unifying power it holds," expressed Chandaria. He pledged continued allegiance to such initiatives, emphasizing their vital role in nurturing connections, social responsibility, and international goodwill.
The day-long celebration kicked off with the Kenyan All-Stars locking horns with the formidable Japanese Samurai, followed by an exhilarating face-off between the Celebrity "Shujaa" Community Team and the local Nairobi-American Buffaloes. The event culminated in a championship game between the Nairobi-American Buffaloes and the Kenya All-Stars with Kenya lifting the trophy amid fanfare.
JKUAT's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, applauded the concerted efforts that brought the facility to fruition.
"This dream was actualized through relentless collaboration with Nairobi American Buffaloes and their partners, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for our students and the community at large," Prof. Ngumi remarked. Special acknowledgment was extended to Thomas Wallace, Director of IfWeBuildIt.org, for his pivotal role in resource mobilization.
The event wasn't solely about the sport; it was a holistic celebration featuring classic American fare, music, and entertainment. Additionally, it was a networking crucible for personalities from diverse sectors, including Kenji Hayashi from JICA, Irungu Houghton of Amnesty International Kenya, and various representatives from the realms of sports, business, and entertainment.
The success of the Stars & Stripes Softball Celebration underscores the potential of sports as a catalyst for social change, community building, and international unity. It's a stepping stone towards more inclusive, diverse, and frequent cultural exchanges under the banner of sportsmanship. With the Nairobi Field of Dreams, JKUAT and its partners have set the stage for a future where everyone can play.