In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- Former Tusker FC striker Albert Muema partners with an American company to help young Kenyan athletes pursue education and sports opportunities in the U.S.
- The initiative has signed eight athletes, with two already studying and competing in American universities.
Former Tusker FC striker Albert Muema has teamed up with an American-based company to help young Kenyan athletes pursue both academic and sports opportunities in the United States.
As the Director of American Sports Scholarships Kenya, Muema confirmed that the initiative has already begun yielding positive results, with eight athletes signed so far, two of whom are already in the U.S.
“We partnered with an American agency to provide Kenyan students and athletes the chance to pursue their education and sports in the U.S.,” Muema explained.
He highlighted the unique experience for student-athletes in America, who are treated as special students with customized schedules. This allows them to compete in top-level competitions while excelling academically.
Muema emphasized the potential for Kenyan student-athletes to go professional, as university sports in the U.S. serve as a feeder program for professional teams.
Since the program’s inception in March 2024, they have signed eight athletes, with two already in the U.S. and others scheduled to depart in January and August 2025.
The two athletes currently in the U.S. are Alvin Udoto, playing for Laramie County in Wyoming under NJCAA Division One, and Geoff Alenga, who is at Blinn University in Texas, also competing in NJCAA Division One.
“They finished high school in Kenya and were eager to play and study in America,” Muema said, expressing his satisfaction in helping them achieve their dreams.
Prominent Kenyan athletes like Eliud Kipchoge and Faith Kipyegon have supported such programs, recognizing the importance of balancing education with sports training.
Muema’s own journey as a player has been impressive. The 31-year-old began his career in Kenya with Ligi Ndogo and later joined Tusker FC for a brief stint in 2014.
He then moved to Australia, where he enjoyed success with teams like Broadbeach United, Eastern Suburbs FC, and Oakleigh Cannons FC. Currently, Muema is still active in football, playing in Austria.