Shabana coach Okidi impressed by talent unearthed in Nyamira trials

The two-day scouting exercise, which took place on July 18 and 19, was designed to identify promising players under the age of 23 for potential inclusion in either the club’s senior or youth squads.

The trials began at Sere Grounds in North Mugirango and West Mugirango before shifting to Rigoma Grounds for players from Kitutu Masaba and Borabu constituencies.

Participants were required to bring full training kits, valid ID documents, and had to be non-KPL registered players, emphasizing the focus on raw, undiscovered talent as part of their itinerary.

“What we’ve seen is extremely promising and encouraging,” said Coach Okidi.

“There’s so much talent at the grassroots, and this initiative was carefully planned between the technical bench and management to tap into it effectively,” he added.

Since earning promotion to the FKF Premier League in the 2023/24 season, Shabana FC has grown into a formidable side, finishing fifth with 53 points in the recently concluded campaign, just four points shy of a top-four finish.

 The club’s youth team has also been making waves, currently leading the Kisii County League with 39 points, nine ahead of their nearest rivals, Nyaguta Bayern.

Okidi emphasised that some of the players scouted will be absorbed into the youth or senior team, depending on their development levels.

“As a community club, it’s vital that we give our local boys a platform,” he said. “It’s better we keep and develop our own talent rather than let it flourish elsewhere.”

Okidi has also called on Shabana FC fans to rally behind the team as they gear up for the new season.

“The support from our fans has always been incredible, and we’re counting on them even more this time. With their backing, we believe we can achieve new milestones and take this club to greater heights,” said Okidi.

The trials not only showcased Shabana FC’s commitment to grassroots development but also reinforced its long-term vision to build a strong, homegrown squad capable of sustained success at both senior and youth levels.