Ulinzi Stars goalkeeper Sylvian Ricks Omondi has disclosed why he quit rugby in high school and opted to play football instead.Omondi has been a revelation at the military side and has established himself as the first-choice custodian of the Danstun Nyaudo-coached side, wading competition from veteran goalkeeper James Saruni.Kenya international scoops top award in Romania after outstanding seasonThe custodian did not just start directly with playing football at a young age but first fell in love with rugby. However, he realized that there were better prospects for him in football as compared to his first love.“My football journey has been tough. I actually did not want to play football at first, I was interested in playing rugby. I played rugby up to form 1 but realized it could not take me far and converted to football while in form 1 at Musingu High School,” said Omondi.##NAJAVA_MECA_8598367##With the transition to football done, there was another big decision to make, which position he was to play in. Omondi shared how he arrived at that decision.“I chose goalkeeping because I realized it needed more physique and less running. I was also a bit better with my hands,” he added.Ulinzi Stars coach draws inspiration from 2003 title winning run after poor startThe Nakuru-born and bred player also opened up on the challenges that he faced growing up.“Growing up in Nakuru, life was tough. Finding even training boots was tough and most of my friends joined crime but I chose to focus on sports,” he stated.##NAJAVA_MECA_8598372##The Musingu High School alumnus also shared the motivation behind his hard work and his role model in the beautiful game.“My biggest motivation is my mother who used to follow up on my football career and pushed me to go for training even when I did not feel like it.Harambee Stars keeper dreams of playing for Manchester UnitedMy role model is Jan Oblak, the Atletico Madrid goalkeeper. When I started playing as a goalkeeper, he was on the top of his form,” he concluded.Omondi will be working hard and hoping to start between the posts when the 2010 league champions return to action on Saturday 4 January 2025 in a clash against Kariobangi Sharks.
