Shabana FC to Host FKF Premier League Matches at Gusii Stadium After 18 Years
After nearly two decades away from their home ground, Shabana FC is set to host its FKF Premier League home matches at Gusii Stadium once again. The club’s Secretary General, Elizaphan Kerama, confirmed the exciting news, sharing that the stadium renovations have been completed and are awaiting final approval from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). This return marks a significant milestone for Shabana, who have spent years playing in alternative venues due to the stadium’s closure.
A Historic Return to Gusii Stadium
Shabana FC, fondly known as the Glamour Boys, has a long history with Gusii Stadium. However, due to various logistical issues and stadium renovations, the team has been unable to play at their home ground for the last 18 years. Last season, the club had to host their FKF National Super League (NSL) and FKF Premier League (FKFPL) matches at venues such as Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay and Moi Stadium in Kasarani.
The announcement of their return to Gusii Stadium comes as a breath of fresh air for both the players and the fans, who have eagerly awaited the club’s homecoming. According to Kerama, extensive work has been done to ensure the stadium meets the FKF’s stringent requirements, with the final touches, including an inner perimeter wall, completed just last week.
Shabana’s First Home Match Against Posta Rangers
The much-anticipated return to Gusii Stadium is set for September 28th, when Shabana will host their first home Premier League match in 18 years against Posta Rangers. Kerama is calling on fans to show up in large numbers and support the team, emphasizing the importance of home-ground support as they begin this new chapter.
“We are thrilled to be back home and cannot wait to see our fans fill the stadium. We are ready to host any team, and we are confident in our preparation. With the support of our fans, I’m certain we will secure a victory against Posta Rangers,” Kerama stated.
Gusii Stadium’s Renovation and FKF Approval
The return to Gusii Stadium was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the Kisii County government, which expedited the renovation process. The upgrades involved improvements to the playing surface, seating, and security measures to ensure the stadium complies with FKF standards.
Kerama expressed his gratitude to the county leadership for its commitment to the project, highlighting that the renovation was crucial for meeting FKF’s requirements. The FKF Venues Inspection Committee is expected to carry out a final inspection in the coming days, with approval anticipated ahead of Shabana’s first home game.
“We are grateful to the Kisii County government for working tirelessly to get the stadium ready. All the necessary security features and requirements have been implemented, and we are confident of passing the final FKF inspection,” added Kerama.
Growing Optimism Around Shabana FC’s Future
The return to Gusii Stadium is not the only exciting development for Shabana FC. The club recently secured a major sponsorship deal with gaming giant SportPesa, which has provided a significant financial boost. The Ksh. 75 million deal will go a long way in supporting the club’s operational and developmental needs.
Kerama highlighted the impact of the SportPesa partnership, stating, “This partnership opens up a lot of growth opportunities for Shabana. We can now focus on building a strong team and expanding our reach.”
In addition to financial backing, the club has made strategic investments in its youth and women’s teams. Shabana’s under-19 squad, based at Nyanchwa Boys, is seen as a feeder team for the senior squad, while the newly formed Shabana Queens will compete in the Women’s Super League. The club is committed to developing homegrown talent and building a foundation for long-term success.
Fans Urged to Turn Gusii Stadium Into a Fortress
Kisii County officials have also shared their excitement about Shabana FC’s return to Gusii Stadium. Deputy Governor Elijah Obebo encouraged the team to make the stadium their fortress, emphasizing the unifying power of football in the community.
“We are excited to welcome Shabana back to Gusii Stadium after 18 long years. Football is the beautiful game that brings people together, and we are proud to host Shabana here once again. We urge the team to make this stadium a fortress and give their fans and sponsors something to cheer about,” Obebo remarked.
Eric Ongeri, Kisii County’s acting Sports Minister, confirmed that all renovation works had been completed to the required standards and called on fans to show up in large numbers for the Posta Rangers match. He emphasized the importance of fan support in helping the team settle back into their home ground.
Shabana FC’s Ambitions for the Season
As Shabana FC prepares to make its return to Gusii Stadium, the club is setting ambitious goals for the season. With a solid squad and renewed enthusiasm, the Glamour Boys are looking to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the FKF Premier League.
Kerama remains confident that the team is well-prepared and capable of achieving great things this season. “We have worked hard during pre-season, and our players are ready to compete at the highest level. Our aim is not just to survive in the Premier League but to compete for top honors,” he said.
The partnership with SportPesa, the support from Kisii County, and the return to Gusii Stadium have all contributed to a sense of optimism around Shabana FC’s future. Fans, too, are hopeful that the team can build on this momentum and bring success back to Kisii.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Shabana FC
Shabana FC’s return to Gusii Stadium after an 18-year absence marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the club. With the support of Kisii County, the backing of SportPesa, and the unwavering loyalty of their fans, the Glamour Boys are well-positioned to make a strong impact in the FKF Premier League this season.
As they prepare for their first home match against Posta Rangers on September 28th, all eyes will be on Shabana as they look to reclaim their status as one of Kenya’s top football clubs. Fans are encouraged to show up in full force and turn Gusii Stadium into a fortress, ensuring that Shabana FC’s homecoming is a triumphant one.
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