AFC and Gor Mahia fans will now be able to reward exemplary players through Betsafe’s new Player Of The Month Award that was announced at a dinner for the Mashemeji squads who played a derby final of the FKF Cup on Sunday, 6th July.
Betsafe CEO, Victor Simiyu, commended both AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia for playing a thrilling final that culminated in penalty shootout to determine who would represent Kenya at the CAF Confederation Cup.
“We are starting a player of the month award for both teams, who will be chosen by the fans. Each player who is chosen will get an award of Ksh 25,000 to help motivate the players to keep pushing for more. Despite the prevailing economic conditions, we are continuing our 3 year contract with both clubs. For us this partnership shows our commitment to local football and growing the game in Kenya. This is about giving back to the community and supporting these clubs so that they can be able to achieve their goals and as well grow the game in the country,” said Simiyu.
This move comes even after the introduction of a 7.5% excise tax on all amounts wagered by the Kenya Finance Bill, 2021.
Ambrose Rachier, Gor Mahia Chairman, underscored the importance of sponsorships to shoring up sports teams’ balance sheets in a hostile financial environment where ticket sales are non-existent even with increasing taxation on some of the sponsors.
“I really appreciate the partnership between our sponsors, Betsafe, and Gor Mahia Football Club, which started last year. When it came into force, we all recollect that we were already confronted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and our other sources of income such as the stadium gate collection where not available. Tax has adversely affected football in the country because our other clubs, not all of them, have been sponsored by betting firms,” said Rachier.
AFC Leopards Captain, Isaac Kipyegon, lauded the introduction of the Player of the Month Award for the motivation that it will give the players to maintain top-class performance.
“We thank Betsafe for coming through during these difficult times and pushing us to give our best. We are also planning to give our best to be good brand ambassadors for the company,” said Kipyegon.
His sentiments were echoed by Gor Mahia midfielder, Kenneth Miguna, who considers the Player of The Month Award an additional motivator for individual performance.
“The Player of The Month Award will be a great opportunity for players. It is a great initiative that will be a big boost to the players. The award will push us to always perform well,” said Miguna.
Gor Mahia goal keeper, Gad Mathews, made two crucial saves that edged out the Leopards 4-1 on penalties to win the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Cup at Nyayo Stadium, and earn K’Ogallo a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup.