While the football off-season is often a time for players to rest, travel, or spend quality time with loved ones, something unique is unfolding in Nairobi.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More NewsAt grounds such as Baba Dogo, MYSA Komarock, and Kariobangi Primary School, a special group of footballers is quietly preparing for the upcoming campaign, away from the spotlight.The group, known as GK FC or simply “Keepers Union,” is made up entirely of goalkeepers drawn from all levels of Kenyan football, from sub-county leagues to the FKF Premier League and even the national team, Harambee Stars.##NAJAVA_MECA_9004639##Over the past few weeks, they have been engaged in rigorous training sessions, sharpening their skills and testing their cohesion through friendly matches, all of which they have won so far.At the heart of this initiative is Nairobi City Stars goalkeeper Byron Owino, who serves as the union’s captain.Speaking after their weekend game at Dandora Stadium, Owino explained that the idea behind GK FC was to create a space where goalkeepers could train together, learn from one another, and elevate the standards of their craft.“We started the team because we believe all keepers are on the same level when it comes to sharing knowledge,” Owino told Mozzart Sport.“We have players from every tier, Sub-County, County, Division Two, and the national team, and that allows us to grow together.”Police Bullets to splash millions in pursuit of CAF Champions League dreamDespite playing as outfield players during friendly games, the group remains focused on goalkeeper-specific drills during training sessions.These include working on positioning, distribution, reflexes, and ball control, all skills essential in today’s game, where modern coaches demand goalkeepers who can do more than just stop shots.“Our biggest motivation is that we are accepted for who we are as goalkeepers. We do not compare ourselves with outfield players, and that gives us extra drive. It helps us improve technically, especially in ball-playing and passing under pressure,” Owino added.How Harambee Stars assistant captain’s pep talk inspired Butere Boys to break Regional Games jinxThe team is also inclusive of female goalkeepers, among them Bandari Queens’ Valentine Khwaka, further highlighting the group’s commitment to unity and mutual improvement regardless of gender.Currently, the program is limited to Nairobi-based players, largely due to logistical challenges like transport and accommodation, which make it hard for goalkeepers from outside the city to join.##NAJAVA_MECA_9007120##Owino, however, is optimistic that with time, more keepers from other regions will become aware of the initiative and come on board.Among the notable names training with GK FC are Bandari’s Farouk Shikalo, Gor Mahia’s Kevin Omondi, KCB’s Boniface Munyasa, Gedion Ogweno of Mathare United, Brandon Obiero, Nairobi United’s Ernest Mohammed, and several others from both men’s and women’s leagues.
