Ex-Tusker striker Muema partners with US firm for youth programs in Kenya

Former Tusker FC striker Albert Muema has partnered with an American-based company with an aim of helping young Kenyan athletes to achieve their dream of pursuing both academic and sports in the USA.

Muema, who is currently the Director of American Sports Scholarships Kenya confirmed the unique experience has already started to bring results as recently, they were able to sign eight athletes, with two already in America.

“We partnered with an American agency to provide opportunities for young students and athletes in Kenya who would want to go pursue both their academic and sports in America,” said Muema.

“This is a unique experience as a student athlete in America. They are referred to as special students as they have a different timetable to regular students which makes them able to compete in the high level competitions across universities in America alongside making sure they excel in their studies,” elucidated Muema.

Muema continued: “Student athletes in Kenya have the chance to go professional as university sports is the feeder program for professional teams in America. We started the program this year in March and we have so far been able to sign up about 8 (eight) student athletes with 2 (two already in America and others scheduled to go in January 2025 and August 2025 (the two intakes for universities in America).”

The two players already in America include Alvin Udoto, who currently is based in Wyoming at Laramie County and playing in the NJCAA Division One and Geoff Alenga, who is in Blinn University in Texas playing in the NJCAA Division One.

“They finished their high school in Kenya and were looking to play and study in America,” explained Muema on Udoto and Alenga move.

“We are happy to have worked with these athletes and their parents to make their dreams and aspirations come true,” he added.

Prominent Kenyan athletes like Eliud Kipchoge and Faith Kipyegon have voiced their support for these programs, recognising the importance of balancing education with athletic training.

The 31-year-old striker started his playing career in Kenya with Ligi Ndogo, where he was among the triumphant youngsters who travelled for the Keele tournament staged in 2010.

He trained briefly with Tusker in 2014 under coach Francis Kimanzi for three months before he chose to study and play in Australia. He had great success, leading to winning a trophy with Broadbeach United in Australia’s Coast Premier League.

In 2015, he won the Brisbane Premier League title with Eastern Suburbs FC before plunging to the more lucrative National Premier League in Australia with Oakleigh Cannons FC.

Muema is still active and currently playing in Austria.