Mara Sugar made a strong statement in the FKF Premier League, announcing their arrival with a resounding 3-0 victory over Kakamega Homeboyz at the Green Stadium in Awendo. This marked the first time in four years that the former home ground of the now-defunct Sony Sugar FC hosted a top-flight match.

The win was a significant moment for coach George Midenyo, a newcomer to the league. His team’s blistering performance earned him a nomination for Fans’ Coach of the Week, though the accolade went to Tomas Trucha, who led AFC Leopards to a 4-0 demolition of Mathare United.

Mara Sugar’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In week two, they fought valiantly but were edged out 1-0 by seasoned Bandari FC. However, they bounced back strongly with an identical 1-0 victory over Nairobi City Stars the following week. Once again, Midenyo made the Fans’ Coach of the Week list, this time losing out to Kariobangi Sharks’ William Muluya, who masterminded a 3-0 win against Murang’a Seal FC.

Reflecting on his team’s early-season form, Midenyo attributed their success to a combination of faith and teamwork. “There’s nothing more satisfying for a coach than seeing players listen and follow instructions. That has been our key to success,” he said.

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Midenyo’s rise to the top-flight coaching ranks has been a long journey. A league winner with Tusker FC and part of the 2012 Gor Mahia team that clinched the FKF Cup and KPL Top 8 Tournament under Croatian coach Zdravko Logarusic, Midenyo’s eye was always on the future. By 2015, after returning from a stint in Ethiopia and joining the now-defunct Wazito FC, Midenyo was already preparing for life on the touchline.

“I want to thank my mentor Frank Ouna for guiding me into coaching. While at Wazito, he encouraged me to pursue my coaching badges, and by 2015 I had my CAF D license,” Midenyo said.

Now, Midenyo is part of a growing list of young coaches in the FKF Premier League, many of whom have benefited from the Football Kenya Federation’s (FKF) initiatives to develop future managers. This year, he earned his CAF A coaching license, an experience he says has shifted his perspective on the game.

“It’s a different experience. As a player, you’re just a tool in the game, but as a coach, you’re a manager. You decide what to do, when to do it, and how to execute a plan based on the situation.”

Midenyo’s tactical philosophy centres on building from the back, a style he believes will help Mara Sugar as they continue their campaign. As they prepare to face Murang’a Seal FC this weekend, Midenyo is confident: “I can assure you that the boys will give a good fight. They’ll play as a unit and defend the club with pride.”