Gor Mahia FC forward Austin Odhiambo and Kenya Police Bullets’ Lydia ‘Ozil’ Akoth have been honored as the Most Valuable Players (MVP) of the FKF Premier League and Women’s Premier League, respectively.
Odhiambo had an outstanding season, playing a pivotal role in Gor Mahia’s title victory. Akoth was equally instrumental in leading Bullets to their first-ever Women’s Premier League championship.
“I am delighted. It is a privilege and an honor to win the MVP. When the league started, I didn’t think I would win, but I give credit to coach McKinstry (Jonathan). He is the one who told me I have the ability to be the best player in the league and I had to push towards that,” Odhiambo said. He added, “This has been one of the best seasons for us and we had such a great team. I dedicate this to my mum who was hospitalized after an accident.”
Police’s Akoth shared her excitement over the accolade, saying, “It is a great achievement for me as a player. Winning the MVP gives me a challenge to do better in the coming season to maintain the standards.”
Gor Mahia also dominated other awards in the men’s Premier League. Goalkeeper Kevin ‘Saha’ Omondi received the Golden Glove, and Benson Omalla, with 19 goals last season, took home the Golden Boot. Jonathan McKinstry, who has since left for a new role as Gambia’s head coach, was named Coach of the Year.
In the women’s league, the Golden Glove was shared by Judith Osimbo of Ulinzi Starlets and Sophy Akinyi of Vihiga Queens, both achieving 10 clean sheets. Tumaini Waliaula of Vihiga Queens secured the Golden Boot with 16 goals last season.
Josephine Wanjiku and Dickens Mimisa were awarded the FKF Women Premier League and FKF Premier League Referee of the Year honors, respectively.
Additionally, Junior Starlets Head Coach Mildred Cheche received the President’s Award for her exceptional leadership in guiding her team to Kenya’s first World Cup appearance in football.
