- Gor Mahia’s assistant coach Patrick Odhiambo has created a lasting impression on upcoming footballer’s minds. He is keen to establish a football academy in Chiga, Kisumu County to nurture young talents.
Odhiambo already made the first step of his ambition to nurture future footballers by establishing an academy at Awendo in Migori County when he was a defunct Sony FC coach
“When public gatherings including sports activities were banned due to the coronavirus pandemic, I came here and found young boys playing football. They have talent but they were playing aimlessly just to entertain themselves,” Odhiambo said
“They asked me to train them. I spoke to their parents who agreed and at the moment we have 28 young boys and girls. However, due to the COVID-19 containment measures, we train in small groups.” He explained.
He called on like-minded individuals to work with him to establish a solid academy to ensure young talent is not lost.
“These boys are highly talented but they lack proper coaching that is why we want to join hands and establish an academy here. This talent must be tapped while still young. Youth development should be taken seriously in this country,” he affirmed.
“Now that these children are at home until January, training them here is one way of keeping them busy. We also talk to them about the importance of remaining disciplined.”
Odhiambo wants to give back to society and utilize his experience and skills he has attained to ensure talents bare fruits. He has also coached Chemelil Sugar, Muhoroni Youth, and Agro Chemicals.
“I like imparting skills to young people so that they can be better in future. Kisumu has an abundant talent which should be properly nurtured,” he added.
