Nairobi: Kariobangi Sharks wonderkid Humphrey Aroko has been named the SportPesa League Player of the Month for February, with immediate former Shabana boss Peter Okidi taking home the Coach’s Award. Teenager Aroko, 18, has been Sharks’ standout player in a challenging season for the team, which finds itself in the lower half of the table.
According to Kenya News Agency, Aroko excelled in February, showing remarkable skill and maturity beyond his years. He outperformed seasoned competitors, including Gor Mahia’s Enock Morisson, who took the runners-up spot. The former Highway Secondary School attacker played a pivotal role in Sharks’ unbeaten February run, directly contributing to all four goals scored by the team with two goals and two assists.
Aroko’s performance included a crucial opener in a 1-1 draw against KCB and an assist to Luke Otiala in the Slum Derby against Mathare United. He then scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory over Ulinzi Stars and provided an assist in another 1-0 win at APS Bomet, reaching double figures in combined goals and assists for the season. Speaking at the award ceremony in Nairobi, Aroko expressed his happiness and gratitude for receiving the award at this stage of his career, emphasizing the team’s potential for improvement.
Meanwhile, Okidi, despite being relieved of his duties in March, led Shabana to an impeccable run, winning all four matches under his guidance. This performance earned him a second monthly honor, joining Gor Mahia’s Charles Akonnor as a double winner. Okidi’s achievements were highlighted by Shabana’s four clean sheets, tipping the scales in his favor against Gor Mahia’s three-match win streak.
Okidi expressed gratitude for the award, acknowledging the hard work put into the team’s success. On his departure from Shabana FC, he wished the team well for the rest of the season. For his efforts, Okidi received Sh75,000 and a customized trophy.
SportPesa Partnerships and Sponsorships Manager Japheth Akhulia praised the influence of young players like Aroko and Paul Ochuoga, emphasizing their role in maintaining league competitiveness and inspiring aspiring talents. The Player and Coach of the Month awards recognize performances that significantly impact team results, with selections based on detailed match data and performance metrics compiled by Tisini.
