Harambee Stars goalkeeper beats Austine Odhiambo, six others to SJAK award
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 15.09.25. | 17:53
His standout performance came in Kenya’s narrow 1-0 victory over Morocco, where his reflex saves and commanding presence between the posts proved decisive
Harambee Stars goalkeeper Bryne Omondi has been crowned the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) / LG Personality of the Month for August, capping a remarkable run of form that has firmly established him among the country’s most promising custodians.
The award, presented on Monday morning, saw the Gor Mahia shot-stopper walk away with a personalised trophy and a 65-inch LG television set, a gesture recognising his outstanding contribution to Kenyan football during a defining month in his career.
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Omondi, who only recently joined Gor Mahia from Bandari, edged out stiff competition from fellow Harambee Stars teammates Ryan Ogam, Suleiman Okwaro, Sylvester Owino, Alpha Onyango, and Austin Odhiambo.
He also triumphed over Kenya’s rally champion Samman Vohra and Kenya U20 women’s volleyball sensation Terry Tata to clinch the coveted accolade.
The goalkeeper earned plaudits for his heroics at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which was co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
His standout performance came in Kenya’s narrow 1-0 victory over Morocco, where his reflex saves and commanding presence between the posts proved decisive.
The match, sealed by Ryan Ogam’s lone strike, not only handed Omondi the man of the match award but also stamped Kenya’s authority on the continental stage.
Omondi concluded the tournament with two clean sheets, notably featuring in Harambee Stars’ memorable wins over eventual winners Morocco and two-time champions DR Congo.
He also saved a penalty against finalists Madagascar in the knockout stage, though Kenya bowed out to the Islanders in a hard-fought contest.
Speaking after receiving the award, Omondi expressed pride in the recognition and gratitude to Kenyans for their support.
“Winning the SJAK award is a great achievement for me, and I am truly humbled. I thank the fans for standing with us. Keeping clean sheets in such high-level matches and helping Kenya reach the quarter-finals was special. It showed the continent that Kenya can no longer be taken lightly,” he said.
SJAK President James Waindi hailed Omondi’s achievement, describing the award as a rare honour for a goalkeeper.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate Bryne. Goalkeepers are often overlooked in such accolades, but his performances were too impactful to go unnoticed,” Waindi said.
On his part, LG Electronics East Africa President Donghun Lee reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting individuals driven by ambition and resilience.
He noted that Omondi perfectly embodied the spirit of perseverance that LG seeks to celebrate.
“LG has the passion to support those who are taking on challenges in pursuit of their dreams and, in doing so, inspire and encourage others along the way. Truly, Bryne Omondi fits that bill,” remarked Lee.
