Days after his promotion from Inspector to Chief Inspector of Police by the National Police Service Commission, Kenya Police FC team manager George Maelo has shared his reflections on the club’s journey and ambitions in the Kenyan Premier League. 

Maelo, who was part of the now-disbanded Red Berets FC (another law enforcement-affiliated team) looks back on his tenure as team manager, leading a side now on the brink of winning its first-ever league title since earning promotion in 2021. 

“I am proud to be one of the founders of Kenya Police FC after the disbandment of the former Red Berets. We felt that we had let the service down, and we made a promise to ourselves; to bring the team back to the Premier League. I am grateful that today, the team is not only in the league but also performing well, competing for the title, and focusing on the Mozzart Tournament,” Maelo noted. 

Police FC won their maiden FKF Mozzart Bet Cup in 2024, securing their first major trophy. Maelo attributes the team’s success to the club’s top brass and their dedication to supporting the squad in its daily operations. 

“I am deeply humbled by our chairman, Nyale Munga, whose dedication, love, and sacrifices for the club inspire me. He is my role model in management. Under his leadership, the technical bench and players remain motivated and focused on his vision; not just winning the league but also reaching the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.” 

For years, the relationship between the police and the public has been fragile. However, Maelo told People Sports that using football as a tool to foster mutual understanding between the two parties is his greatest motivation. 

“My vision has always been to use sports as a means of strengthening relationships between police officers and the public, relieving stress, and fostering unity. I envision a future where police officers fill stadiums to cheer the team, just as we follow the English Premier League.” 

The former Sofapaka FC defender also reflected on his lowest moment as Kenya Police FC team manager. 

“My lowest moment as team manager was when personal interests overshadowed the club’s vision and mission. It was disheartening, and I had to step away for a few months. Watching the best team struggle at the bottom of the table after eight matches was painful.

“However, I thank God that the board, through our chairman, made the decision to recall me. Together with a new technical bench, we have worked tirelessly, and God has been faithful.” 

Kenya Police FC currently leads the FKF Premier League table with 45 points, ahead of Tusker and Gor Mahia. Maelo credits the players for the team’s smooth run in the country’s top-tier league this season. 

“I truly appreciate our players; they are phenomenal. They train hard, push themselves, and support each other, both on and off the pitch. As a manager, I value our shared experiences, from the high moments to the challenges we face together. We constantly remind ourselves of our goals and the importance of staying focused.” 

Maelo further urged everyone at Police FC to remain humble, emphasizing that football is a team sport that requires listening to one another, valuing every role, and recognizing the crucial support of fans. 

“My dream is to see Kenya Police FC play in full-capacity stadiums, just like Shabana fans do. I want to see our players move to European clubs after joining the service. My ultimate vision is for Kenya Police FC to grow into a powerhouse like Yanga, Simba, or Mamelodi Sundowns, operating with professionalism and a deep passion for the game,” he added. 

Meanwhile, as Kenyan football continues its quest to reclaim former glory, Kenya Police FC has emerged as a rising force, credited with great leadership and ambition.