Betting company Betika, in collaboration with the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK), has launched one-year sponsorship program aimed at recognizing and rewarding the country’s top coaches.
The collaboration, formalized at an event attended by key SJAK executives and prominent coaches, has seen Betika invest Sh. 6 million towards organizing and facilitating monthly cash awards for outstanding coaches with each winning coach receiving Sh. 100,000 along with sports kits for their teams.
Speaking during the event, Betika President, Mr. James Wahindi underscored the importance of celebrating coaches, noting that while players often receive accolades for their victories, the hard work and dedication of their mentors behind the scenes remain largely unseen.
“Coaches are the unsung heroes behind our athletes’ success; therefore, this partnership is a step in the right direction to ensure their efforts are recognized,” stated Wahindi
He added that a 7-to-10-member committee will be established to independently select the winning coaches each month, ensuring a transparent and rigorous process.
Further, he announced that the awards are set to kick off this March and will culminate in an end-of-year gala where the top-performing coach of the year will be crowned.
At the same time, Betika Senior Brand Manager, Erick Mwiti, echoed the sentiments, reiterating the company’s commitment to nurturing sports talent in Kenya.
“While athletes shine on the field, there are always coaches working tirelessly in the background. This sponsorship ensures their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed,” Mwiti reiterated.
Also present at the event was the SJAK Secretary General, Moses Wakhisi who stated that the one-year sponsorship deal also holds the promise of renewal.
“We will give Betika a reason to stay—not once, not twice, but for years to come,” Wakhisi confidently assured.
Meanwhile, several distinguished coaches, including National and Strathmore University hockey coach Meshack Senge and Women’s National Handball Team and Nairobi Water coach Jack Ochieng expressed gratitude for the initiative.
Senge, reflecting on his experience, highlighted how previous SJAK awards inspired greater competitiveness among hockey coaches, driving the sport forward.
With such initiative, Kenyan sports take a bold step toward recognizing those who shape champions, inspiring both coaches and athletes to strive for even greater heights.
By Vanessa Muhati and Jesee Otieno
