•"I started in 2020 during Covid-19 time when there were no means of getting an income, times were tough, restrictions aplenty," Ondeng
•the legacy of resilience, passion, and perseverance burns bright, illuminating the path for aspiring footballers across the globe.
In the world of football, where every match holds the promise of glory and every player dreams of greatness, there will always be a figure whose passion and dedication transcend the boundaries of the game.
Former Gaspo women's coach James Ondeng, a name whispered with reverence among players and coaches alike, embodies the spirit of perseverance and resilience that defines the beautiful game.
Hailing from a humble background, when uncertainty hung, he found solace and purpose in the art of coaching. He chose to embark on the journey fueled by determination and a burning desire to make a difference.
"I started in 2020 during Covid-19 time when there was no means of getting an income, times were tough, restrictions aplenty," Ondeng recalls while reflecting on the challenging beginnings of his coaching odyssey.
Guided by the lessons of his struggles, Ondeng ventured into the realm of coaching with unwavering resolve.
Armed with the experience he garnered from Makongeni Goalkeeping Academy in Nairobi and inspiration from luminaries like Tusker defender Eugene Asike and KCB's goalkeeper Brian Opiyo, he set out to shape the destiny of young talents.
"I do train together with KCB’s Opiyo and Tusker's Boniface Bwire. It brings about concentration awareness and communication," he shares, emphasising the transformative power of mentorship in honing the skills of budding footballers.
Image: HANDOUT
From the dusty fields of Babadogo to the hallowed grounds of Gaspo, his journey is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit over adversity.
"Even at home, I coach and do coach infield and outdoor," he added.
His impact transcends the realm of sports, extending to mentorship and guidance. "My message to them is normally straightforward. I tell them that my career as a coach is long. I can coach for up to 90 years as opposed to players," he shares, offering pearls of wisdom to his protégés.
In the crucible of coaching, Ondeng discovered the delicate balance between command and camaraderie, adaptability and authority. "In coaching men, it is more of commanding, while when it comes to the ladies, it's more of requesting them. We live, we learn, and we adjust," he reflects.
As the sun sets on one chapter of his journey, Ondeng stands tall, a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. "I know how to develop a player from the bottom as my approach is tactical," he asserts.
With each training session and each match, Ondeng continues to shape the destiny of young talents, nurturing dreams and forging champions on and off the field.
For in the world of football, as in life, it is not the victories that define us but the legacy we leave behind.
And in Ondeng, the legacy of resilience, passion, and perseverance burns bright, illuminating the path for aspiring footballers across the globe.