Lakers Hockey Club's Ulisi named SJAK Coach of the Month for January 2026

Ulisi guided the Lakers to a historic maiden Africa Cup for Club Champions title in Harare, Zimbabwe, after defeating holders Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) 2-0 on post-match penalties, following a 1-1 draw in normal time.

The Kisumu-based side registered two wins and a loss during the week-long tournament. It was a sweet victory for the Kenyan ladies, who travelled almost 3,000 km by road to the Southern African nation and lost their opening match to GRA before exacting revenge in the final.

Ulisi pipped Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor and Kabras Sugar coach Carlos Katywa to the award.

Akonnor had led K’Ogalo to five wins and a draw in January, ensuring they lead the Kenya Premier League by four points.

South African Katywa also had a memorable January after guiding the Kenya Cup champions to remain unbeaten in this season’s competition. Kabras chalked up four wins to remain on course to finish top ahead of the playoffs.

SJAK president James Waindi acknowledged the persistence the team showed, which enabled them to claim the continental honors.

“This was your third appearance at the annual continental championship and you finally emerged victorious. It is a great show of persistence and hard work and as SJAK we are very proud of you for your achievement,” observed Waindi.

Other nominees for the monthly accolade included Patrick Ivuti, who led the Kenyan team to once again finish top at the World Cross Country Championships held in Tallahassee, Florida, with a total of nine medals.

Kenya’s top-ranked female tennis player Angela Okutoyi’s coach, Francis Thuku Rugoi, was also among the nominees after the US-based player rose to position 123 in the ITF singles rankings.

KCB RFC coach Dennis Mwanja, David Vijago of Kenya Police Bullets FC, as well as golf coaches Neil Mathews and David Mash, were also in the running for the award.