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Many have paid tribute to former Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars captain Austin Oduor remembering his leadership and lasting legacy.
The nation continued to pay tribute to former Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars captain Austin Oduor Origi who passed away on Tuesday night at a hospital in Kakamega.
The 60-year-old football legend was pronounced dead after falling ill and being rushed to the hospital.
Oduor, widely recognized for leading Gor Mahia to their historic victory in the 1987 African Cup Winners' Cup leaves behind a legacy that has deeply touched the football fraternity and fans alike.
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10:01 - 16.10.2024
Austin Oduor: Farewell to the captain who led Gor Mahia to African glory
Kenyan football legend Austin Oduor Origi, former Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars captain, has passed away, leaving a lasting legacy.
Following his passing, former Harambee Stars player Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino, a childhood friend who grew up with Oduor in Ziwani, Nairobi, shared fond memories of the late football legend.
“He was always a person of integrity. He stood up for what is right, and when I came back, I found that he still held those values,” said Owino
Oduor’s leadership extended beyond his time on the pitch. Former Gor Mahia forward Mike ‘Kwasa Kwasa’ Otieno spoke highly of Oduor’s protective and fatherly role in the team, particularly to younger players.
“When I joined Gor Mahia, I was the youngest in the team. Austin was like a father figure to many of us because he protected us from bullying. He was the best captain I ever played under,” Otieno recalled.
Oduor also served as the chairman of the Gor Mahia Legend Welfare Group.
Eliud Owalo, the Deputy Chief of Staff in the Executive Office of the President, Performance and Delivery Management, reflected on the close personal and professional relationship he had with Oduor.
“It is only three days ago that Austin and other former Kenyan Soccer Internationals paid a courtesy call on me at our Gangu Village home in Asembo.
I remember with nostalgia the memorable moments we have spent together with Austin, the guidance I got from him from time to time, the many initiatives we pursued together in supporting grassroots football activities, and the conceptualisation and operationalising of the Gor Mahia Legends’ welfare sustainability fund,” Owalo said.
He added, “I have lost a friend; an elder brother; a Guardian; and a role model in life.”
FKF presidential contender Hussein Mohamed highlighted Oduor’s indelible mark on Kenyan football.
“We extend our sincerest sympathies to the family, friends, and the football fraternity on the demise of the legendary Austin Oduor. His legacy and contribution to the game will forever be remembered. May his soul find eternal peace,” Mohamed said.
In a heartfelt statement, the designer of Gor Mahia’s jerseys, Sheria Ngowi, honored Oduor’s leadership and impact on the team’s success.
“Austin led the team to a historic victory in the 1987 African Cup Winners’ Cup, ‘Mandela Cup’. His immense contribution and exceptional leadership enabled the team to reach the pinnacle of success.
His legacy will continue to be remembered and honored by current and future generations,” Ngowi remarked. He extended condolences to Oduor’s family, Gor Mahia FC, and the fans affected by the loss.
Kenyan Premier League CEO Jack Oguda praised Oduor as more than just a player but a true ambassador of the sport.
“My heartfelt condolences to the entire family for the loss of your beloved one Austin ‘Makamu’ Oduor. He was not only a wonderful player, coach, and manager but a true gentleman on and off the pitch. No wonder he is such a legend and has been a great ambassador for Kenyan football,” Oguda wrote.
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