Days after his promotion from Inspector to Chief Inspector of Police by the National Police Service Commission, Kenya Police FC team manager George Maelo has reflected on the team’s prospects a few seasons into the Kenyan Premier League.
Maelo, who was part of the now disbanded Red Berets FC, another outfit associated with Kenya Police, looks back on the journey as a team manager of a side on the verge of winning their first ever league title since their promotion in 2021.
“I am proud to be one of the founders of Kenya Police FC after the disbandment of the former Red Berets,” Maelo said. “We felt that we had let the Service down, and we made a promise to ourselves to bring the team back to the Premier League. I am grateful that today the team is not only in the Premier League but also performing well, competing for the title, and focusing on the Mozzart Tournament.”
Police FC won their maiden FKF Mozzart Bet Cup last year, winning their first ever major trophy, with Maelo attributing the team’s success to the club’s top brass and their dedication to supporting the club in their daily operations.
“I am deeply humbled by our chairman, Nyale Munga, whose dedication, love, and sacrifices for the club inspire me. He is my role model in management. Under his leadership, the technical bench and players remain motivated and focused on his vision – not just winning the league but also reaching the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.”
For a very long time, the police and the general public have had a very fragile relationship, but Maelo told SportsAfrica that the approach to use football as a tool to encourage a mutual understanding between the two parties is his greatest motivation.
“My vision has always been to use sports as a tool for strengthening relationships between police officers and the public, relieving stress, and fostering unity. I envision a future where police officers fill stadiums to cheer the team, just as we follow the English Premier League.”
The former Sofapaka FC defender also reflected on his lowest moment as the Kenya Police FC team manager.
“My lowest moments as team manager were when personal interests overshadowed the club’s vision and mission. It was disheartening, and I had to step away for a few months. Watching the best team struggle at the bottom of the table after eight matches was painful. However, I thank God that the board, through our chairman, made the decision to recall me. Together with a new technical bench, we have worked tirelessly, and God has been faithful.”
Police FC are leading the FKF Premier League table with 45 points, ahead of Tusker and Gor Mahia. Maelo credits the players for the smooth run in the country’s top tier league this season.
“I truly appreciate our players – they are phenomenal. They train hard, push themselves, and support each other, both on and off the pitch. As a manager, I value our shared experiences, from the high moments to the challenges we face together. We constantly remind ourselves of our goals and the importance of staying focused.”
Maelo further encouraged everyone at Police FC to remain humble, emphasising that football is a team sport, which means listening to one another, valuing every role, and recognising the crucial support of our fans.
“My dream is to see Kenya Police FC play in full-capacity stadiums, just like Shabana FC does. I want to see our players move to European clubs after joining the Service. My ultimate vision is for Kenya Police FC to grow into a powerhouse like Yanga, Simba, or Mamelodi Sundowns, operating with professionalism and a deep passion for the game,” Maelo added.
Meanwhile, as Kenyan football continues to find ways to reclaim its former glory, Kenya Police FC has emerged as a football powerhouse to be emulated, courtesy of great leadership at the club.
