Major Boost for AFC Leopards as Fred Ambani Receives Prestigious Coaching Honour

AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has been named the Betika/SJAK Coach of the Month for December 2025 following an impressive run that saw Ingwe rise to the top of the FKF Premier League standings.

The former Leopards player guided the club to the summit of the table after 14 rounds of the 2025–2026 season, recording three wins and a draw during the month.

Fred Ambani emphatically silenced his critics by masterminding a famous 1-0 victory over arch-rivals Gor Mahia to claim Mashemeji Derby bragging rights.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

AFC Leopards also secured a hard-fought 2-1 win against Ulinzi Stars before edging Bidco United 1-0, with their only dropped points coming in a goalless draw against defending champions Kenya Police.

Fred Ambani was all smiles as he received the monthly accolade and paid tribute to his players’ commitment and effort.

"I'm thrilled to receive this award," said Ambani. "I'm proud of my team's hard work and dedication. We're excited for what lies ahead in this New Year as we seek to challenge for the League title."

During the award presentation, a Betika Marketing Executive congratulated Ambani and highlighted the significance of his achievement, noting the pride associated with guiding AFC Leopards to victory in what is widely regarded as Kenya’s biggest football derby.

SJAK President James Waindi praised Ambani’s contribution to Kenyan football, describing him as a role model for former players aspiring to transition into coaching.

“This award recognises coach Ambani’s outstanding contribution to Kenyan football,” Waindi said. “He’s an inspiration to many ex-players who dream of one day becoming coaches, and we’re honoured to have him leading the charge at a big club like AFC Leopards.”

Fred Ambani emerged top from a competitive field of nominees drawn from various sporting disciplines. National Cereals and Produce Board handball coach Bryan Mathews was shortlisted after guiding his side to the top of the Kenya Handball Federation league table.

Zadock Adika, coach of Kenya’s 3x3 basketball team, was also nominated following his team’s bronze medal finish at the FIBA 3x3 Africa Cup 2025 in Madagascar.

Victor Ng’ani earned a nomination after leading Kenya’s team at the Africa Youth Championships to the top of the standings with an impressive medal haul, while Team Kenya coach Evans Owino was recognised for overseeing a seventh-place overall finish at the same championships in Angola.

DCI women’s volleyball head coach Patrick Sang was also among the nominees after steering his team to three consecutive wins to end the year on top of the league, while Catholic Monks Rugby head coach Simon Jawichire joined the list after guiding his side to three straight victories and the summit of the second-tier standings.