I'm under no pressure ahead of KPL kick-off, says Talanta coach Jackline

When the FKF Premier League 2024-2025 season kicks off on August 24, Jackline Juma, the first-ever female to coach a men’s top-tier side will be calling the shots on the Talanta FC touchline.

The former Harambee Starlets and Mathare United player was oriented with a barren draw against Kariobangi Sharks in a friendly match at Utalii grounds on August 12. 

The Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA) alumni thanked Talanta board for believing in her, as she tackles the new challenges ahead.

She said she is under no pressure despite being the first woman in history to lead a team in the KPL.

“It is an achievement for me and other female coaches. This is another great experience,  which should encourage women to get their coaching badges. FKF  have done a good job by training more female coaches and gender should not be a barrier, when it comes to appointments, ”  said Jackline.

Until her appointment, Juma was the National Women's Super League side, Gor Mahia Queens' coach and was also in charge of the U15 girls national team and Talanta Hela women's side.

The Caf 'A' licence holder, who will be out to leave a mark in the league, will be assisted by Jackson Gatheru who was acting after Ken Kenyatta was sacked in March over a series of poor performances.

Talanta finished 15th in the 18-team FKF League table with 37 points, just one ahead of Sofapaka, who retained their status with a 2-0 aggregate win in the two-legged playoffs against Naivas.

“We don’t want to find ourselves in the same situation again, but we will take one game at a time as we chase our targets which is finishing in a better position,” added the experienced tactician.

Jackline and Harambee Starlets' head coach Beldine Odemba are the only two female coaches holding the CAF 'A' badge in the 49 male-dominated field. CAF 'A' is the second-highest qualification badge in Africa.

According to FKF's new regulations, all KPL side coaches must hold a CAF 'A' licence, which Gatheru fell short of, having attained a CAF B badge.

Meanwhile, Starlets' head coach Odemba has congratulated Juma on her appointment and believes it is a huge achievement that will open doors for more female coaches in Kenya.