FROM A STRIKER TO ONE OF THE BEST GOALKEEPERS IN KENYA, THE STORY OF THIKA QUEEN’S FC SHOT STOPPER MONICA KARAMBU.

If you think that Karambu started as a goalkeeper, then you are wrong, because her journey is an interesting one.

She grew up in Meru, where her footballing journey started in the areas of Kivoi, Mpuri, and Kaaga. She played for Kiamimiru primary school, then went to Kithatu Girls, and also played for Kenya Methodist University, which nurtured her talent to professional levels.

She reveals that she started playing as a striker, only to shift momentum when her team needed someone to step up.

“I was not playing as a keeper, but rather as a striker and I used to score a number of goals. My journey as a goalkeeper started in 2015 at Thika Queens when our first-team goalkeepers got injured, and I was asked if I could try between the posts. I took the challenge and my future exemplary performances tell how tremendous the journey has been” says Karambu.

From there, she got the first call-up to the national team, Harambee Starlets. Last season, she was also voted in as the best goalkeeper for the KWPL 2020-2021 season.

Karambu says she is excited to be among the finalists of the first-ever Kefwa Gala Awards, and she is optimistic to carry the trophy home.

“I am excited to appear among the finalists. We had a fantastic season winning the title, and I kept a number of clean sheets, helping my team to finish the season unbeaten. Being among the finalists is an honor, but winning the trophy will be exemplary not only to me and my team but also to our fans and my Meru community,” she noted.

With her parting shot, she has a message to her fellow professional and upcoming footballing ladies.

“Put God first and discipline is the key. Football is a team sport and therefore respect that the club’s management, coach, and fans expect the best of you, so every minute on the pitch means a lot.”