For most young footballers, making the jump from Division Two, Kenya’s fourth tier to the FKF Premier League, Kenya’s top tier feels like a far-fetched dream—one that takes years of grinding to even come close to.
But for 17-year-old Charles Junior Auma, that dream became reality faster than he had imagined. Just a few months ago, Auma was playing for Bongonaya FC in Division Two Eastern Zone. Fast forward to last weekend, and he was stepping onto the pitch in a Sofapaka jersey, making his top-flight debut against Bandari FC.
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While Sofapaka lost 1-0, Auma stood tall, putting in a remarkable performance for a kid his age that announced his arrival on the big stage.
The defender does not take his rise for granted. To him, stepping onto that pitch was a moment of validation, “It’s an achievement because I always dreamt of playing in the top flight one day. I was very happy because I felt like my prayers were finally being answered. My mind was at peace,” he says.
Featuring the 2009 Kenya Premier League champions in the top tier from Division Two is more than just a step up—it’s a whole new world of intensity, pressure, and expectation for the former Bongonaya defender.
“The game intensity is very high because the coach, the team, and the fans all demand results,” Auma admits. “Every team in the Kenya Premier League approaches matches tactically, making it a lot more competitive.”
Despite the shift in level, Auma is finding his feet, thanks to the guidance of experienced teammates, “I’ve been catching up with the likes of captain Humphrey Mieno who has been instrumental in helping us young players in the club to adapt as he’s the most experienced player in the club and also in the league, he makes football look easy in every aspect,” he says.
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The biggest challenge? Not the team, but the league itself, “Every team plays differently, so we have to prepare for each match with a different tactical approach,” he explains citing the tactical levels that top-flight brings.
Auma’s first Kenya Premier League game may have ended in defeat, but it was a personal win for him, “Out of 10, I’d give myself an 8,” he says, knowing there’s still more to come. “I believe I can do much more—it was just the beginning and I know that a lot needs to be done.”
One lesson he quickly picked up in his debut match? “In the top flight, it needs 100% concentration, from the first whistle to the last you can’t blink more so in the defence line you have to be alert,” he emphasizes.
When asked about areas he needs to improve, Auma laughs and says, “I can’t say, or they’ll use it against me!” A playful response, but it shows he’s aware that in this league, every weakness can be exploited. “I want to keep clean sheets, score goals, and earn a regular starting role,” he declares.
And beyond this season? “Being that this is my debut season in the top-flight and I’m still young, I dream of playing abroad too, I see myself in Europe in some years to come,” he says confidently, a dream he’s determined to chase.
For the Sofapaka fans, Auma has a simple message: “Don’t doubt the boy. More is yet to come. Just keep believing and supporting me—we all hope for positive results in the coming games for our club.”
He also took a moment to appreciate the coaches and mentors who have guided his journey, “To all the coaches and staff who made my dream of playing in the top-flight level a reality, may the Almighty bless you and help you nurture more young talents.”
At 17, Charles Junior Auma has already made a statement, the youngster will be hoping to build on his confidence more having also featured for Michael Olunga Football Academy U17s under coach George Owoko in 2023 during their visit to Sweden.
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