Humphrey Aroko celebrates with his teammates.
By KPC Sports Reporter
Kariobangi Sharks teenage sensation Humphrey Aroko has been named the SportPesa League Player of the Month for February, while former Shabana head coach Peter Okidi clinched the Coach of the Month award following an impressive run.
The 18-year-old Aroko, a Kenya U-20 international, stood out as Sharks’ key performer in a challenging season that has seen the club struggle in the lower half of the table.
Despite the team’s difficulties, the former Highway Secondary School attacker elevated his game in February, outperforming more experienced players, including Gor Mahia’s Enock Morisson, who finished as runner-up.
Aroko played a decisive role in Sharks’ unbeaten run during the month, directly contributing to all four goals scored by the team.
He netted twice and provided two assists, beginning with a crucial equalizer in a 1-1 draw against KCB.
He later set up Luke Otiala in the Slum Derby against Mathare United, before scoring the lone goal in a 1-0 win over Ulinzi Stars and assisting again in another 1-0 victory against APS Bomet.
The latter contribution saw him reach double figures in combined goals and assists for the season.
“I’m very happy and grateful to receive this award. It means a lot for me personally, especially at this stage of my career. But as a team we know we can still do much better,” said Aroko.
“We are not yet where we want to be in the league. I’ll be even happier when we move further up the table because that is what really matters. There is still a lot of room for improvement for me individually and for the team,” he added.
Coach of the month
Meanwhile, Okidi earned the Coach of the Month accolade after guiding Shabana to a flawless February, winning all four matches played during the period.
The achievement marked his second monthly award this season, having previously won in November.
Okidi edged out Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor, whose side also maintained a perfect record with three wins and seven goals scored.
However, Okidi’s extra match and Shabana’s four clean sheets ultimately gave him the advantage.
“I am really grateful to receive this award. It’s a testament to the hard work we put in the team not just in February but since the season began,” said Okidi.
Reflecting on his recent departure from Shabana, popularly known as ‘Tore Bobe’, Okidi expressed optimism for the club’s future.
“I remain a big fan of the club. We had a great run during my tenure and I’m happy we were in the title fight, but it looks like Gor Mahia have pulled away. I wish the team the very best for the rest of the season,” he said.
For his achievement, Okidi received a cash prize of KSh75,000 and a customized trophy, while Aroko took home KSh50,000 alongside his award.
SportPesa Partnerships and Sponsorships Manager Japheth Akhulia praised the rising influence of young players in the league, noting that Aroko’s win marks the second consecutive month a young player has claimed the top individual honor.
“For the second month running, a young player who is still trying to find their feet in the league has carried the best player award,” he said, referencing last month’s winner, Gor Mahia fullback Paul Ochuoga.
“Young talents like Aroko and Ochuoga are showing great potential and playing an important role in ensuring the league is competitive at this stage. They are also giving hope to many young players dreaming of making it in the SportPesa League. We couldn’t be happier with the growth we are witnessing,” Akhulia added.