Police FC unveil new coach

By Peter Ochieng

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League side Police FC has unveiled a new head coach.

The move comes over a week after the law enforces dismissed the entire technical bench consisting of head coach Salim Babu, and handed the reigns to Police Bullets FC head coach Beldine Odemba, albeit on an acting capacity.

Burundian Ndayiragije Etienne is the new man on the Police FC technical bench.

He will be charged with quickly turning around the club's fortunes in the topflight league, with poor results having costed Babu his job.

"We officially unveil Ndayiragije Etienne as Head Coach," the club announced in an update on social media on Friday.

"In the presence of our Club Chairman Nyale Munga, Coach Etienne takes the reins to lead us into an exciting chapter of ambition and growth."

"Renowned for his expertise and winning mindset, Coach Etienne’s appointment signals our commitment to achieving excellence both on and off the pitch," the club added.

Etiene has widely managed in Tanzania. His immediate assignment before the the new appointment was a stint with the Burundi national football team.

The appointment means Odemba will have to wait for another chance to manage a team in the FKF PL.

She had expressed her ambition to secure a permanent role as a head coach of Police FC, despite being in charge of Police Bullets, the reigning Kenya Women Premier League (KWPL) champions.

On Friday last week, she became the second woman to manage a men’s top-tier football team in Kenya, after FC Talanta's Jackline Juma.

She led Police FC to a 0-0 draw against Kariobangi Sharks at the Dandora Stadium.

“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 said.

“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.”