Humphrey Aroko’s journey from academic struggles to football stardom is nothing short of inspirational. The young footballer, who recently helped Kariobangi Sharks secure a hard-fought draw against Mathare United, has been making headlines for more than just his on-field performances. Scoring a C+ in the 2024 KCSE exams, a grade that qualifies him for university, marks a remarkable turnaround for someone who had scored just 185 marks in the KCPE exams three years earlier.
A C+ might seem ordinary to some, but for Aroko, it symbolizes resilience and determination. Back in 2021, his academic future seemed bleak. However, his technical skills and potential on the football pitch caught the eye of scouts as he rose through the ranks of Kariobangi Sharks’ youth system. Among those who believed in him was coach Beldine Odemba, who saw beyond his academic struggles and recognized his raw talent.
Odemba convinced the principal of Highway Secondary School to offer Aroko admission, despite his low KCPE score. The decision proved pivotal. At Highway, Aroko thrived under a system that emphasized balancing academics with athletics. Initially focusing solely on football, he soon learned the importance of prioritizing his studies, a mindset that would define his high school journey.
Aroko played a crucial role in helping Highway Secondary reclaim its dominance in school football. His standout performances led the team to the 2024 national finals, where they narrowly lost to Uganda in a thrilling tournament held in Kisumu. His skills also earned him recognition with Kenya’s U-18 national team, a significant milestone in his career.
As his final year of high school approached, Aroko was determined to excel both on and off the pitch. Encouraged by his teachers and coaches, he embraced the idea that his past performance did not define his future. This perspective motivated him to make sacrifices, including turning down a call-up to the Kenya U-20 squad for the CECAFA AFCON-U20 qualifiers. Instead, he chose to focus on his KCSE exams, a decision that ultimately paid off.
With high school now behind him, Aroko is looking to the future. Recently called up to the U-20 national team, he is eager to contribute to Kenya’s campaign at the upcoming U-20 AFCON in Ivory Coast. Missing the CECAFA qualifiers due to his exams has only fueled his determination to make an impact.
Beyond the national team, Aroko aims to gain more playing time with Kariobangi Sharks as he works toward his dream of playing in Europe. He believes that consistent game time will boost his confidence and prepare him for future opportunities, including trials abroad.
While football remains his primary focus, Aroko hasn’t ruled out pursuing higher education. For now, he is taking a break from school to concentrate on his football career, but he remains committed to returning to the classroom once he achieves his goals on the pitch.
Aroko’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of second chances. His journey from struggling student to promising football star serves as an inspiration to many young Kenyans striving to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams.
