Kenya Police coach Beldine Odemba targets long-term FKF Premier League role after historic debut

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Kenya Police coach Beldine Odemba targets long-term FKF Premier League role after historic debut

Stephen Awino 12:39 - 23.11.2024

Odemba became just the second woman to take charge of an FKF Premier League side on Friday.

Police FC interim coach Beldine Odemba has expressed her ambition to secure a permanent role as a head coach in Kenya’s FKF Premier League.

Odemba made history on Friday by becoming only the second woman to manage a men’s top-tier football team in Kenya, following her debut at the sidelines in a 0-0 draw against Kariobangi Sharks at Dandora Stadium.

Odemba stepped into the role after Police FC dismissed its entire technical bench just a day before the match.

Despite the sudden shakeup, she demonstrated her tactical acumen, securing a valuable point for a team currently struggling in 15th place with seven points from six matches.

Speaking after the game, the former Police Bullets coach shared her excitement about the opportunity.

“This goes to show that there is no women’s or men’s football or coach. A coach’s job is to prepare the team and be ready for matches because the ground now is level,” she said via Tata Sport.

Odemba emphasized her longstanding dream of leading a men’s team, saying, “I’ve always expressed my desire to coach a men’s side. I think this has come close to fulfilling that, but this is on an interim basis. I’m happy that I’m getting the experience as I continue to aspire to become a full-fledged men’s coach.”

She noted minimal differences between coaching men and women, adding, “I don’t see that much difference as long as the players are taking in instructions well. Maybe the pace and tactics come to men more naturally.”

Odemba joins FC Talanta’s Jackline Juma as trailblazers for women in the male-dominated field of men’s football coaching in Kenya.

Her debut has sparked conversations about breaking gender barriers in the sport and redefining traditional roles in football.

The Law Enforcers will hope Odemba’s fresh perspective helps them climb up the log as they navigate a challenging season.

For now, the focus remains on whether the interim coach will get the chance to make her mark permanently in Kenya’s premier league.