Nzoia Sugar FC is facing a deep financial crisis, with players going unpaid for months, struggling to afford food, and even facing eviction. The club’s coach has revealed the immense challenges that have put the team’s future at risk, especially since their relegation to the National Super League.
For the past seven months, the players have not received their salaries, and no assistance has come their way. The situation has led to an exodus of players seeking better opportunities elsewhere, forcing the coach to recruit local talent who are also struggling financially. With no financial support, the team is now barely surviving.
Many of the players have been unable to clear their rent arrears, leading to some of them being locked out of their homes. Others are struggling to afford meals, making it even more difficult to focus on training and matches. Coaching a team under such circumstances has proven extremely challenging, with some players losing hope and opting to leave rather than continue without pay.
The lack of payment has also significantly affected morale in the team. The players are demotivated and, without financial security, have little to look forward to. The coach has been forced to take on additional roles beyond coaching, acting as a counselor and motivational figure to keep the team together.
Training sessions have also been affected by these struggles. The number of training days has been reduced because players lack the motivation to show up when they are unsure of where their next meal will come from. The coach emphasized that before a player can perform well on the pitch, their basic needs must be met. Without food and shelter, it is nearly impossible for them to focus on football.
The financial crisis has also made traveling difficult, impacting the team’s ability to honor fixtures and compete effectively. The coach has openly stated that unless sponsors or other stakeholders step in to provide financial assistance, the team may be forced to shut down.
Despite these struggles, the team remains hopeful of climbing up the league table. Currently sitting ninth with 29 points, they are still fighting to improve their position despite the ongoing financial difficulties. However, if the situation does not change soon, the club’s future remains uncertain.
The coach has urged sponsors and well-wishers to come forward and support the young talent in the team. He pointed out that some of these players have the potential to become great footballers, but their dreams are being crushed by the ongoing financial crisis.
Getting a team to compete at the National Super League level is already a challenge, and financial difficulties only make it harder. With no intervention, the club may not survive for much longer. The appeal for support remains urgent, as the players struggle daily with basic survival, let alone football performance.
Without immediate financial assistance, Nzoia Sugar FC may be forced to shut down, bringing an end to a club that has nurtured promising footballers over the years. The players and the coaching staff continue to hold onto hope, but the reality of their struggles is becoming harder to ignore.
