The Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term One Games in Kisumu have marked a significant period of soul searching for traditionally dominant sports schools. Several established powerhouses experienced unexpected near misses and outright failures to qualify for the national stage, signaling a shift in the competitive landscape.

• Notable former champions like Kimilili High School (handball) and Musingu High School (hockey) failed to qualify for the national games.
• Institutions such as Kisii School and Kakamega High School, once dominant in rugby, fell short in the finals or final stages.
• The games highlighted the rise of emerging teams and the increasing parity in school sports across rugby, basketball, and hockey.