For many young footballers, sharing a pitch with their childhood idols remains a distant dream. For Sofapaka midfielder Jack Onganya, that dream has become a reality.
The former Green Commandos player has expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside one of Kenya’s most experienced midfielders, Humphrey Mieno.
Speaking about his admiration for the veteran player, Onganya said, “It’s been an exciting journey so far. When I was starting primary school, he was already playing in the top flight. He’s my role model, and I look up to him. Honestly, I play football because of him.”
Since joining Sofapaka after finishing his high school education, Onganya has been one of the most instrumental players for the club with his composure and versatility on the pitch which recently earned him the club’s November player of the month.
Despite his tender age, the midfielder has already found the back of the net once and provided an assist in the league. Onganya credits much of his growth to Mieno’s guidance.
“He makes things easier for me in the midfield by guiding me on what to do and encouraging me when I make mistakes,” Onganya explained. “In my debut game, he was incredibly supportive. If I made an error, he would either correct me verbally or by showing me the right positioning with the ball. By the time either of us moves on, I know I’ll have learned so much from him.”
Onganya’s journey to the top flight has been nothing short of remarkable so far. After playing as a center-back for Green Commandos in Division 1, he has transitioned into midfield at Sofapaka.
“I feel comfortable playing as either a defensive midfielder or a center-back,I played as defender in highschool but I’m feeling great too playing as a defensive midfielder. I’m always ready to step up wherever the team needs me, as long as I listen to the coaches and follow instructions I know all will be well.”
The former Green Commandos Captain also shares his thoughts on the challenges of transitioning from lower-tier football.
“So far, I can say playing in the top flight hasn’t been as challenging as I expected compared to the lower divisions. In the lower tiers, the pressing is intense—you barely have time to scan for a pass before an opponent is on you.”
Beyond personal achievements, Onganya remains committed to helping Sofapaka achieve its objectives this season.
“As a player, my goal is to help the club finish the season in a good position better than last season’s,” he stated. “If I continue working hard, I hope to secure an opportunity to play abroad. We have a great squad with players who understand each other well and a great technical bench which makes it easier to express myself on the pitch.”
Onganya’s ambition extends to the national stage as well. Kenya recently qualified for the AFCON U20 tournament, and the midfielder is eager to represent his country.
“I’m excited that the country has qualified for the AFCON U20 tournament next year. If given the opportunity, I’ll be proud to represent Kenya and hope to help bring glory home,” he added.
For now, Onganya remains focused on his development and cherishing the opportunity to learn from Mieno. As he put it,
“It’s a dream come true playing with my role model.” With his talent and determination, it’s clear the young midfielder is destined for a bright future in football.
