AFC Leopards should borrow from Athletics Kenya to reclaim glory-MP Wanyonyi
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 03.07.25. | 09:00
With Ambani set to lead Ingwe for the next four years, the Westlands legislator called on his administration to emulate AK’s success model
Westlands Member of Parliament (MP) Tim Wanyonyi has urged newly elected AFC Leopards officials to take inspiration from Athletics Kenya (AK) as they seek to restore the club’s lost glory.
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Speaking to Mozzart Sport on June 29 at Stadion Hotel, Kasarani, moments after casting his vote during the club’s Special General Meeting (SGM), Wanyonyi stressed the need for a grassroots-focused approach in talent development.
“I want to encourage the incoming team to go out and look for players not just in Nairobi but deep in the grassroots. That’s where raw talent is found,” Wanyonyi said.
“Just look at Athletics Kenya. These young men and women giving Kenya pride on the world stage are mostly unknown talents from villages, scouted early, nurtured, and now winning medals.”
The SGM saw former striker Boniface Ambani elected as the new Leopards chairman, taking over from Dan Shikanda.
With Ambani set to lead the club for the next four years, Wanyonyi called on his administration to emulate AK’s success model, which has consistently produced champions from secondary schools and rural training camps.
As an example, Wanyonyi pointed to Faith Cherotich, the 20-year-old 3000m steeplechase world bronze medalist from Segetet village, Kipkelion West, Kericho County.
She was discovered while still in Form Three.
“School games are where Ingwe scouts should be camping. Teams we’ve never even heard of are producing outstanding talent,” Wanyonyi said.
Wanyonyi also challenged the new Leopards leadership to reconnect with their roots.
Historically, the club has benefited immensely from scouting talent in secondary schools and nurturing players through feeder teams.
The 1998 league-winning squad, which remains Leopards' last Premier League title team, was largely composed of school-based talent.
Rodgers Muhanji, Paul Milemba, and Austin Makacha came from Musingu High School, Sylvester Wanyama was scouted from Jamhuri High, while Chris Odhiambo joined the first team while still a Form Three student at Mbale High School.
The squad also included Maurice Sunguti, a product of the club’s feeder side Reunion, while other talents emerged from then-prominent development teams like Motcom and Rivatex.
As the club steps into a new era under Ambani, Wanyonyi has pledged full support for the players and officials.
“Our support will come, because we know when we appreciate our players, they will give even more. Let’s rebuild this team together,” he concluded.
