Harambee Stars defender David 'Cheche' Ochieng opens up about his emotional journey from Maringo to stardom

Police FC captain David Ochieng explains his rise in Kenyan football and the challenges he encountered that made his football resolve unstoppable.

Kenya Police FC captain David 'Cheche' Ochieng has finally opened up about how his humble upbringing, life hardships, and motherly love strengthened his resolve to carve a niche in football.

The veteran centre back who grew up in Nairobi's Maringo area, said he learnt to be responsible from a tender age and used to help his mother in her business, sometimes he returned to school late because he was the only person who could assist his mother accomplish her targets.

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This , he said, allowed him to learn taking responsibility early on and be a role model to his siblings. Cheche, who previously played for 12-time champions AFC Leopards, also said life was a struggle because they used to sometimes feed on the 'leftovers' chapati that were not sold by the mother.

"Growing up in Marish ((Maringo) has taught me to be humble in life because I know what hardship is. My mother used to sell food (chapati) to the jua kali people and sometimes we missed eating when the stock was finished. We used to feed on the left overs  especially after the food had been sold," Cheche told Beyond The Game podcast.

Cheche  is one of the most athletic defenders in the FKF Premier League. He said it was a tough balancing act between education and 'adulthood' responsibility, something that he does not regret.

"Sometimes I used to come back home at lunchtime to assist my mum carry food to the Industrial area so that she can sell.  Most of the time I was back late at school but sneaked into the classroom from the fence. My hard work on and off the field stems from my humble beginnings when I used to help my mother and our neighbors. Even if I return to Marish now, I still can adapt well without any problem," Cheche reiterated.

Even though he felt the pain of how his mother struggled to make ends meet, Cheche credits his mother for developing affection for football after learning that his mother played handball during her formative years.

"Boys love their mothers and I was no different so I had to help my mum. I took initiative because sometimes there was no one to help my mother...I had to balance school and helping my mother so I took the responsibility head on.

"My mother said she played handball although there's no proof but that motivated me. The training ground was near my residence so it was easy for me to hone my skills. I developed a tendency of training at school during breaktime. St Patrick's ground was totally a football pitch and the boys were deadly. I began chasing the ball and it ended up being my passion.,, so that's how it started."

Cheche will hope to maximize on his experience and help Police win the KFPL title this season. The law enforcers lead the 18-team log with 41 points as the season enters the homestretch.