BY SHABAN OMAR
A football club in Kwale SS Assad is embarking on an exciting new chapter as it welcomes fresh management and renewed support.
The team received over sh2M worth of support for new team jersey and other football equipment from the county government.
The change and support aim to elevate the club’s performance and strengthen its presence in the regional football scene.
With a dynamic new leadership team and increased backing from the county government, community and sponsors, the club is poised for a revitalisation that promises to bring both competitive success and enhanced community engagement.
Fans and players alike are eagerly anticipating a new era of growth and achievement for the team which is set to feature in national leagues this September and eventually proceed to premiere league in the near future.
The newly installed Club’s President Richard Onsongo expressed confidence in the future adding that the new management brings on board fresh ideas and zeal needed to take the club to the next level.
“Previously we had a lot of challenges, but with the team in front of you, be assured of success.
Onsongo said that the new management board is equipped with innovative strategies and a renewed enthusiasm to elevate the club’s performance and community engagement.
The new management’s vision includes improving training facilities and salaries, expanding youth development programmes, and strengthening community outreach.
The unveiling event also saw a strong of energetic young players comprising 30 members that are expected to reclaim the club’s lost glory and bring success and potential transformations on and off the pitch.
Onsongo said initially the club could not perform well because of a lack of morale due to poor remuneration, management and welfare of the players.
The club’s president said they lacked firm support from various stakeholders contributing to the team’s poor performance.
He said already the club has signed new and able players with their payment terms well sealed.
Onsongo the unveils also offer the club an opportunity to scout for sponsors and establish strong connections with partners.
He said with the right measures in place, the future looks bright for the football club as it aims to build on its rich history and pursue new heights in the upcoming seasons.
He said that the county is working closely with partners such as Base Titanium to ensure that young talents are effectively nurtured and developed.
Mutua said that the Kwale government has implemented mechanisms to assist young players in recovering swiftly from injuries, underscoring their commitment to player welfare and development.
He said that the initiative is part of a larger effort to build a strong support system for aspiring footballers in the region.
“We have health facilities in place and are working closely with the Red Cross to ensure proper treatment for our players when they sustain injuries,” he said.
Mutua noted that many young, talented players have faced limitations due to injuries because they did not receive prompt treatment.
He said by enhancing access to immediate and effective care, the county aims to better support youth and help them realize their full potential.
Msambweni MP Feisal Bader said that Kwale leaders have made talent development a top priority.
He affirmed that cultivating local talents is not only rewarding but also a crucial investment in the future.
“We are committed to providing every possible support to help our youth thrive,” he said.
Bader also pointed out that sports play a vital role in combating crime and drug abuse among young people.
He said engaging in sports, youth can find positive outlets and constructive activities that steer them away from negative influences.
Bader noted that the county regularly initiates various leagues, including those organised by his office to support young talents at the grassroots level.
He said the football leagues are designed to foster talent development and offer opportunities for youth to showcase their skills.
SS Assad FC was established in 1972 and was initially called Simba FC.
It is a Football Kenya Federation National Super League team from Ukunda Msambweni sub-county.
The team has previously produced several players who are currently playing in various famous football teams in Kenya.
