The Nairobian caught up with Norway-based Harambee Stars shot stopper at the annual Koth Biro games and this is what he had to say:
I am here to watch the games and get to meet my childhood friends. I actually spent my childhood days in Dandora. I have been playing in Koth Biro tournament for as long as I can remember. I would have played today, but unfortunately, I am still nursing an injury which I have to take care of.
My father and all my uncles played in Koth Biro and the tournament has played a significant role in the development of my football career. Back in the day, I used to play for Pelico, a team from Ngara formed by most of my close friends, I have also played for Umeme Bees and Nyoi.
I am impressed by the dedication shown by the team from Dandora, their dedication and the discipline shown by their fans is exemplary. In life, everyone tries to guard and protect their investments, and football evokes more passion when embraced by all in society.
At the quarter final stage, the momentum begins to build and more and more people keep coming. My plea is for local corporates to come on board and support the Kenyan version of street football, which has nothing to do with the wrangles in the federation.
This tourney could be more competitive than the premier league because it is all about estate supremacy. The players from Dandora would like to outshine their counterparts from Jericho, Kayole, Ngara, Dagoretti, you name them. We fight for recognition within the city so that when the day ends, it is all about which mtaa carried the day.
Club football does not count at Koth Biro. Irrespective of one’s professional career, the players come together as a people joined together by the bond of neighbourhood.
We have players who ply their trade in Europe, others in Asia or the Americas, and they all wear the same uniform as their local peers from Kenyan Premier League, Nationwide or even high school lads. We all play one game, and interestingly, the players who do not play any professional football always emerge victorious.
Back in the day, as a teenager, I would play with premier league players both as teammates or opponents and the fact that we brushed shoulders was a major inspiration. It is what gave me hope year in year out. That moment when you share the same pitch, coach and starting line up with people who you only watch on TV gives you the confidence that your dream is not only alive but achievable.
Let us help build the beautiful game and give hope to future stars.
