Shabana forward Ongechi reveals reason behind taking coaching courses early

Shabana forward Peter Ongechi is among 30 coaches who have enrolled for the CAF C coaching training in Nyamira County.

This is the second course for Ongechi, who began his coaching journey with the CAF D class in Kisii County back in 2022.

Shabana's Ongechi target

Asked why he chose to pursue the coaching course while still an active player, Ongechi expressed his motivation for transitioning to coaching.

He stated that he is aware that he will not serve as a player forever and his intention is to secure his future.

He added that his goal is to earn the highest possible coaching badge.

“I realize that my career as a player won’t last forever. Therefore, I’m taking steps to secure my future in football. After graduating from the CAF D class in 2022, I seized the opportunity to enroll in the CAF C course. My goal is to continue along this path until I achieve the highest coaching level,” Ongechi told FKF.

30 coaches commenced their CAF C License training in Nyamira County on Monday, April 15, 2023.

The month-long CAF C course was inaugurated by FKF CEO Barry Otieno, alongside Nyanza FKF NEC Member Joseph Andere, and FKF Nyamira County Representative Vincent Nyasani.

The training comes at a point when the federation has currently trained 7,000 CAF D coaches, 520 CAF C coaches, 100 CAF B coaches, and 58 CAF A coaches.

The course is being conducted by the experienced duo of Musa Otieno and George Ondula.

This comes after Tusker assistant coach Charles Okere emerged as the top performer in his class among the 18 coaches out of the initial 25 who successfully completed the rigorous six-month CAF A License course.

Jackline Juma, Head Coach of the U15 girls’ national team, demonstrated her prowess by securing the second position in the class.

CAF A licence

Noteworthy performances were also delivered by Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba, Posta Rangers Assistant Coach Bernard Kawinzi, and former Ulinzi Stars midfielder Stephen Ocholla, all ranking among the top 10 in the class.

However, five coaches fell short of meeting the required pass mark for the award of their licenses, while two others failed to meet the class attendance threshold mandated by CAF.

Consequently, in accordance with CAF policies, these coaches will be granted a six-month grace period to fulfill assignments and other practical sessions while awaiting a retake of their final examinations.