•The coaches emphasised the need for closer collaboration between FKF and the government to secure sponsors— which is crucial for sustaining competitive squads.
• Kibera Soccer coach David Vijago emphasised the need for more matches and tournaments to enhance players' exposure.
Image: CHARLENE MALWA
Kenya Women’s Premier League coaches are hoping to do things differently this time round as the new season fast approaches.
Coaches including Joesph Mwanza (Ulinzi) David Vijago (Kibera Soccer) and Benard Kitolo (Zetech Sparks) said they remain steadfast in their pursuit of success in the face of adversity in women's football space.
The trio emphasised the need for closer collaboration between FKF and the government to secure sponsors— which is crucial for sustaining competitive squads.
Reflecting on last season's complexities, the coaches admitted that they all navigated financial challenges, interruptions and competitive aspirations.
Going forward, the coaches noted that the priority will be to strengthen squads and enhance performances in upcoming seasons.
In an interview, Mwanzia acknowledged the closely fought race in the top tier despite financial challenges across the board.
"The season has been a thrilling ride with the top four teams— Police Bullets, Kibera Soccer, Vihiga and Ulinzi battling hard for supremacy," said Mwanza.
He is elated that they clinched the FKF Women's Cup and came close to winning the Premier League title. "It's been a season of mixed fortunes, but our focus is on winning both titles next season," he said.
Mwanza, however, lamented the prolonged season with unnecessary breaks. He said the disbandment of the likes of Trans Nzoia and Gaspo due to lack of financial support impacted negatively on the general competition.
Mwanza said there was a need for sponsorship if they were to maintain high league standards.
He said his players are raring to go but they may be forced to plunge into the transfer market in case some of his players bolt.
Kibera Soccer coach David Vijago emphasised the need for more matches and tournaments to enhance players' exposure.
"The prolonged league presented its challenges," Vijago remarked. He said increasing league matches to 40 or 50 would create a more competitive environment.
The Vijago-led squad finished fourth and reached the final of the FKF Women’s Cup despite challenges.
He said he would soon release their transfer plans once they have the necessary approvals and financial support. "We're looking to strengthen every department of the team," he stressed.
He said their plan this year is to build upon their fourth-place finish last season. " We want to minimise losses and post excellent performance this year," he noted.
Vijago also lamented extended breaks, which he said tinkers with the momentum of the teams. "There were instances where we went a whole month without a match and this affected our rhythm," he noted.
Zetech Sparks head coach Benard Kitolohad issues with the points they were deducted after teams were relegated after missing the mandatory three matches in a row.
"We began the league on a high note, winning four out of five matches and led the table at some point. However, our points against relegated teams were later annulled, dealing us a major blow," Kitolo revealed.
The coach expressed frustration over the frequent postponements of matches, saying they affected the team's momentum.
He said their target this year is to reinforce the team, particularly in defence and increase competition among the squad.
"I want to foster a competitive environment among the players to avoid complacency and ensure everyone is pushing for their place in the starting lineup."