“Football is not just a game; it is a way of life that teaches discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.”
My journey into football management has been one of passion, resilience, and a desire to impact young lives. From overcoming childhood challenges to building a thriving football foundation, the path has been both challenging and rewarding.
Early Beginnings: Building Dreams from Challenges
My love for football began in childhood, but being smaller and younger than my peers made it difficult to earn a spot on school teams. Relocating to Nyakach, Kisumu County, I was inspired to address the struggles of local youth who lacked productive outlets. In 2017, I founded MASIWO Soccer Foundation/Pawtenge Elite Soccer, a club focused on nurturing talent and providing life skills like vegetable farming and poultry rearing.
The Journey into Coaching
Starting with limited resources, coaching required sacrifice and creativity. From cleaning cars to selling personal belongings, I made efforts to secure equipment for the team. Support from mentors like Mr. Lamech Okello also proved invaluable. These experiences shaped my philosophy of discipline, teamwork, and holistic development, ensuring players grow both on and off the pitch.
Milestones and Achievements
Leading Pawtenge Elite to victory at the Mangu High School Tournament and guiding Qwetu Aberdare Heights to a championship at the Qwetu Tournament are highlights of my career. These successes underscore the power of unity, strategy, and perseverance.
The Value of Being Licensed
Earning my coaching license through the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) marked a turning point, equipping me with modern techniques and boosting my confidence. This certification reflects my commitment to professionalism and excellence in football management.
Future Aspirations
I aim to elevate MASIWO Soccer Foundation and my current team, African Ballers, to higher competitive levels, enabling players to join top leagues locally and internationally. In five years, I hope to coach internationally, inspiring others while uplifting communities through football.
Reflections on the Journey
Football has taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, adaptability, and perseverance. As Pelé once said, “Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing.”
Looking back, I am proud of the progress my teams and I have made and look forward to continuing this journey, using football as a force for positive change.
