The night ended on a sentimental note with the induction of football legend John ‘Bobby’ Ogolla into the SOYA Hall of Fame
The Junior Starlets, Kenya’s national under-17 girls’ football team, were the toast of the night at the 2025 SOYA Awards after being crowned the Women’s Sports Team of the Year. Their triumph was not just a win for football, it was a proud moment for the entire nation. The young players proved that talent, discipline and teamwork can produce greatness. Last year, they made history by becoming the first Kenyan team to qualify for a FIFA World Cup competition.
Guided by the visionary leadership of Coach Mildred Cheche—who was also named Coach of the Year—the Junior Starlets have had a remarkable season. From dominating regional tournaments to making their mark on the international stage, the girls have played with heart and confidence, winning over fans and opponents alike.
But the Starlets weren’t the only ones who shone at the glittering ceremony held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi. The event, which marked two decades of celebrating sporting excellence, brought together Kenya’s top athletes, coaches and teams for an unforgettable night of recognition and pride.
Teenage athletics sensation Emmanuel Wanyonyi took home the coveted Sportsman of the Year award, following a stellar season that included a silver medal at the World Championships and a Diamond League title. On the women’s side, long-distance star Beatrice Chebet was named Sportswoman of the Year, edging out strong competition from track icons Faith Kipyegon and Hellen Obiri.
The awards also highlighted achievements in para-sports. Samson Ojuka, an outstanding long jumper, was named Sportsman with a Disability, while Michelle Chengetich earned the Sportswoman with a Disability title for her excellence in discus. Their stories stood as powerful reminders of the resilience and determination that define Kenya’s Paralympic athletes.
In the team categories, Thunder basketball club earned the Men’s Sports Team of the Year title, while Rising Stars (the under-20 national football team) and Kenya Prisons volleyball were also recognized. On the school front, All Saints Embu dominated the boys’ rugby category, while Kesogon Girls took top honors in volleyball. Benson Mwenda, coach of All Saints Embu rugby team, was also recognized for his outstanding work in nurturing young talent.
The night ended on a sentimental note with the induction of football legend John ‘Bobby’ Ogolla into the SOYA Hall of Fame. A towering figure in Kenyan football as both a player and coach, Ogolla’s lifetime contribution to the game was honored with a heartfelt standing ovation.