Kelvin Muli says the desire to grow and learn from the best players in the Kenya Hockey Union League, informed his decision to sign for Butali Warriors despite interest from other clubs.
Muli, who turns 23 in July, inked a deal with the sugar millers at the start of the season and has so far featured in all three matches the four-time league champions have played.
The former multimedia University player was heavily linked to Wazalendo but opted for Butali, who currently top the men's standings with seven points after two wins and a draw.
Breaking his silence for the first time, he said: "It is a privilege to play and share the dressing room with the best players in the league. At Butali, growth is assured. You get to learn every day because all the players are committed towards a common course."
The Tala High School alumnus added: "Wazalendo really wanted me to be part of their exciting project so I had to make a choice. I could not say no to Butali after seeking advice from my family as well as Multimedia University captain Michael Mboya."
Muli said Kennedy Munialo has been key in his quick settling at the club, adding that he yearns to don the national team colours.
"Munialo and Moses Ademba are former MMU players so it was easy to adjust to the Butali family that oozes brotherhood. Captain Constant Wakhura is also an inspiration. He told me to express myself confidently on the field and play with passion."
"I will have to fight my way to earn a slot in the national team. That should be the next target but I have to train harder to cement my place in the Butali team. I want to repay the faith shown in me by the management."
Despite being at Butali for less than two months, Muli has already endeared himself to the fans. "I receive phone calls and messages from the supporters, coaches and players after matches. It shows I am playing well but I won't allow that to get into my head."