M. KisengeWhy Samuel Olwande retired from competitive football
Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 12.09.23. | 15:35
Olwande recently announced his retirement from the game after playing in the Kenyan top-flight for over a decade
Former FC Talanta centre back Samuel Olwande took to his social media accounts to announce his retirement from competitive football on Monday.
The announcement meant that the defender exits the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) scene after eleven solid years and having played for seven clubs in the competition.
It is a declaration that he struggled to reveal as it was triggered by a medical report rather than personal choice.
Olwande in an interview with Mozzart Sport disclosed that a report by the Kijabe Hospital based Doctor David Mbugua pushed him to hang his boots at a time he felt he had a few seasons to play in the top flight.
“Unfortunately, it wasn’t my decision. It was informed by a medical report from Dr. Mbugua who advised me to quit,” he opened up.
When did the rain start beating the former Harambee Stars defender?
Olwande’s career began peaking when he secured his first national team call up in 2019 and went on to establish himself as the first choice right back for the team that had tried a number of options in a bid to find a replacement for David Owino.
His rise was punctured by an ankle injury that saw him go under the knife in April 2021 at AIC Kijabe Hospital. He had suffered the devastating injury during a league opener duel against Wazito.
It is after the surgery that Dr. Mbugua advised the former Tusker man to play football for a maximum of three years and retire or risk dire medical consequences.
“The doctor told me to play competitive football at least three years as there was significant damage on the ankle. I have covered at least two years and I feel time is right for me to quit in respect to the advice rendered by the specialist,” he narrated.
Olwande says his fitness levels have never been the same since undergoing the ankle surgery as he kept on battling recurring setbacks, limiting his game time and ability to compete.
“I feel like I had two to three seasons remaining but the ankle hasn’t been giving me a break. It is difficult to give much when you’re not fully fit,” he regretted.
He might have been forced out by an injury against his wish but Olwande exits with his head high having achieved much of his targets.
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The former Sofapaka player singled out his longevity at the top level and featuring for the national team as his moments of pride.
“I leave the scene a happy and proud player. I achieved everything I had planned apart from winning the Kenyan league,” he said.
Olwande debuted in the top flight in 2012 with Oserian. He later joined the defunct Chemelil Sugar.
Twelve-time champions Tusker acquired his signature before moving to Mathare United, a stint which had its ups and downs as he underwent knee surgery while with the Slum Boys.
Olwande later served Sharks and had the privilege of skippering the team. He joined Sofapaka after leaving Sharks. He played for Talanta last season.
Many may be guessing coaching as his next stop but Olwande insists that he is yet to make up his mind over the same.
“It is difficult to completely leave the scene. I also have a responsibility of giving back. I will announce my decision soon,” he added.
