Youngster hopeful to play for Gor, Tusker FC

After successfully guiding Barding High to the Federation of East Africa Secondary School Sports Association games (FEASSSA) title on Saturday, the Most Valuable Player in the just concluded tournament, John Oginga, has set his eyes on the national trophy next year.

Oginga, a Form Three student, was the bedrock of the team’s impressive run, maintaining clean sheets in all matches.

“I am happy for the honor, it tells me someone observes my hard work. Whatever is seen in the field is the end product of the sacrifices we make behind the scenes,” he said.

“I also salute the entire team because without them it is not possible, football is all about teamwork. We came with the desire to win the East Africa title after failing in the Kisumu nationals’ and we eventually  made it, but we want to prove we deserved even the national one next year.”

His side lost in post-match penalties to Nairobi’s Laiser Hill in the nationals final.

After clearing his primary school education at Withur Primay School, Ahero, Oginga went for trials at the Siaya Stadium where his current coach, George Owoko, spotted him, finding his way to Barding.

“It has been a long journey of shaping him and the rest, I have followed his progress since he was in class four but the actual trials for a place in Barding were after his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education. He was a midfielder but I learnt he could play better at the centre back,” noted Owoko.

“He deserved the honor, he has been consistent and played full time in all matches,” Owoko, a former Tusker FC assistant coach, added.

He draws inspiration from his elder brother Ben Ochieng who plays for Nationwide side Vihiga United, currently taking Bachelor of Education at the Kenyatta University.

“I want to play for either Gor Mahia or Tusker FC in the Kenya Premier League (KPL), but my parents have always insisted for balance in football and studies. I have taken it positively and I believe my dream to become a surgeon is still valid,” added the budding player.

Coach Owoko, acknowledged he has been contacted by some KPL clubs interested in some of his players but remained adamant they need more time before signing for any topflight club.

“I don’t even tell them when clubs inquire about them, and I can’t mention their names. It is not healthy for them, some are very young and High School education remains priority. Only one of them we will allow to go for the national Under-20 team trials because that’s a totally different case.”

Meanwhile, Harambee Starlets ace Mwanahalima ‘Dogo’ Adam of St. John’s Kaloleni was named the best girl in tourney. She skippered the team up to the finals before falling to Rwanda’s GS Remera of Rwanda 5-4 in post match penalties.

“I feel we gave our best but sometimes you have to agree the fate was sealed. I am happy to be recognised as the best player although it would have been more fulfilling had we won the trophy,” remarked Mwanahalima.