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The defender Sylvester Owino shares his journey through challenges at Gor Mahia, Harambee Stars, and choosing football over education.
If there is a player who embodies grit and perseverance it is Gor Mahia’s central defender Silvester Owino.
The 23-year-old has had a whirlwind two years with Kenya’s record 21-time champions, overcoming personal and professional challenges to establish himself as one of the most promising talents in Kenyan football.
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Yet, his journey has not been without its share of struggles, both on and off the pitch, as he continues to adapt to life at the top level while navigating the team’s own battles.
"I was supposed to join university to study education, but I chose football instead. My elder brother was already in university, and finances were a challenge, so I had to wait," Owino revealed on Tiki Taka Show.
"During that waiting period, I decided to go back to football and commit fully to it."
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That decision marked the beginning of a transformative period for Owino, who joined Gor Mahia in November 2022 after his contract with Kakamega Homeboyz ended.
However, his dream move came at a turbulent time for the club, which was grappling with a FIFA-imposed transfer ban.
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Unable to be registered, Owino watched helplessly from the stands during the first leg of the 2022/2023 season.
"Joining Gor Mahia was a dream come true. However, my first year was quite challenging as it took me time to settle in. The team was under a transfer ban, so I only started playing in the second leg after the ban was lifted," he noted.
"The transition was rough, but I’m happy I managed to adapt, and I’m proud to have won two trophies with the team."
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Despite these hurdles, Owino has grown into a dependable defender, earning his senior debut for Harambee Stars in a 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe, stepping in for veteran Johnstone Omurwa.
His rise is a testament to his perseverance, particularly after a four-year hiatus from football during high school, when his parents insisted he prioritize education.
Yet, even during his absence from the game, Owino’s passion for football never dimmed.
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Gor Mahia, too, has faced its share of adversity as the club has been navigating tough times, including financial struggles and frequent changes in its technical bench.
"Changing coaches can have either a negative or positive impact, but it ultimately depends on the coach, the players, and the management. If a new coach is brought in, we will work with him and move forward, especially since we are going through tough times," he emphasized.
In addition to internal challenges, Owino came close to a move abroad.
A potential transfer to Portuguese second-tier side CF Estrela De Amadora fell through in August 2022, but European interest remains alive, with rumored offers from Denmark.
For now, Owino remains committed to Gor Mahia, where he continues to refine his craft.
Looking ahead, Owino’s focus is firmly on helping Gor Mahia reclaim its former glory.
Despite the struggles, the defender remains optimistic about the team’s prospects.
"We are a strong unit, and with the right mindset, I believe we can overcome any challenge thrown our way."
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