8 November 2009
editorial
Nairobi — On Saturday, history was written as Sofapaka, a team that a season ago was playing in the lower cadre, joined the big boys and went on to clinch the Kenya Premier League title.
Formed just four years ago to cater for the football needs of Nairobi street children by proprietor Elly Kalekwa, Sofapaka joins an exclusive group.
However, while the players are savouring their moment, they must not rest on their laurels. It is very much possible to win from complete obscurity, but the real challenge will be staying at the helm.
Victory grants Sofapaka a double reason to smile. After all, they are Kenyan champions, and the ink is yet to dry on a Sh12 million sponsorship package from East Africa Portland Cement a week ago. League sponsors Supersport will add another Sh3 million as prize money.
While these monies are not adequate to run a club for a season, accountability and transparency will certainly lure more corporate sponsors.
As Kenyan champions, Sofapaka will represent the country in the continental championships next year together with AFC Leopards, who won the Football Kenya Cup.
Both clubs must realise that winning at home in a semi-professional league is one thing and playing against Africa's best next season will be completely different.
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