Odhiambo calls for "quality approach" as expanded Rashid Abdalla Super Cup is launched

Harambee Stars Assistant Coach Ken Odhiambo has advised football coaches at the grassroots to invest more in quality player development, instead of laying more focus in winning local tournaments.

The Emerging Stars Head Coach has also appealed to coaches at the grassroots to take advantage of the coaching courses being offered by Football Kenya Federation (FKF), to ensure they give players the best basics for beautiful game.

Speaking during the launch of Rashid Abdallah Super Cup in Ukunda, Kwale County on Sunday, Odhiambo underlined the need for focusing on the “real deal,” as opposed to glory that comes with winning tournaments.

"Most of us are results oriented but we forget that these players are humans and there is the aspect of development which is very critical to every player. We must make their future bright and not force them to give results while ignoring the bigger picture, the real deal.

"We should not focus much on the prize money in every tournament. Instead, we should be asking how many players will be ready for bigger clubs after such tournaments. This has more value,” said the ex-Kenyan international.

Renowned media personality Rashid Abdalla - the Patron of competition which enters the fifth edition this year, acknowledged remarkable strides has been made since the inaugural tournament but noted more ground can be covered.

"We want the tournament to be as inclusive and expansive as much as possible, to empower more of our youths. That is why we have now invited a few teams from Mombasa County. We want it to be a game changer to our youths," noted Abdallah.

Defending Champions Kitivo United won 2 - 0 against Black Eagles in last season’s final, with the Most Valuable Player Hamisi Mwaphalu joining Kenyan Premier League side Bandari FC.

Kitivo United will play their opening match of this year’s edition against Mende FC of Mombasa on August 11.

The winner will take home Sh. 2 million and a get a chance to play Bandari FC; and a yet to be confirmed Tanzanian Premier League side.

The football extravaganza has also given birth to Rashid Abdalla Foundation which has been in forefront in community empowerment programs including face-lifting of Waa Primary School classes and the school’s playing grounds.