The Kenya National Women’s U-17 side, Junior Starlets, head coach Mildred Cheche has been awarded the SJAK Coach-of-the-Month title for March 2025. The CAF-A licensed coach edged out Kabras Sugar Coach Carlos Katya and Kenya Police FC’s Etienne Ndayiragire for the coveted award.
Cheche led the Junior Starlets to an impressive 5-0 aggregate victory over Uganda in the first round of the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier. Her strategic guidance saw the team secure a 2-0 win in Kampala, followed by a 3-0 triumph in Nairobi. This win secured the Junior Starlets a spot in the second and final round of the qualifiers against Cameroon.
Cheche previously guided the Junior Starlets to their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic, marking a historic milestone as the first Kenyan team to reach the finals of a global football competition.
“I dedicate this award to the Junior Starlets players and technical bench. Without them, this wouldn’t have been possible. This award motivates us as we prepare to face Cameroon in the World Cup qualifier,” Cheche said. “I thank SJAK and Betika for this initiative.”
Carlos Katya, finished as first runners up. He had an impressive month with Kabras Sugar, guiding his team to the Kenya Cup final with dominant wins including a 20-14 victory against Menengai Oilers, a 25-17 victory against KCB, and a 45-6 victory against Nondescripts.
Etienne Ndayiragire was 2nd runners up. He led Kenya Police FC through an unbeaten run in the FKF Premier League, drawing 0-0 with AFC Leopards, winning 3-1 against Murang’a Seal, and winning 1-0 against Posta Rangers.
Betika Head of Marketing Japheth Akhulia congratulated Cheche, emphasizing Betika’s commitment to rewarding coaches who dedicate their time and expertise to developing their teams. SJAK President James Waindi echoed this sentiment, highlighting the partnership with Betika and their shared ambition of creating opportunities and promoting inclusivity in sports.
Betika and SJAK have a one-year partnership deal worth KES 6 million to support the Coach of The Month award.
Written by Samson Jura, TV47
