Ulinzi Stars announce new captain ahead of 2023/24 season
By Collins Amanga, August 21, 2023
Ulinzi Stars have announced a new captain for the upcoming 2023/24 season, set to commence on Saturday, August 26, 2023.
The club has officially named defender Brian Birgen as their new captain for the forthcoming campaign. This leadership appointment was made public on Monday, just days before the start of the new season.
Ulinzi Stars confirmation
A club statement stated, “Introducing the new captain of Ulinzi Stars Football Club ©️ 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐍 𝐁𝐈𝐑𝐆𝐄𝐍.”
Introducing the new captain of Ulinzi Stars Football Club ❤️
— Ulinzi Stars FC (@UlinziStarsFC) August 21, 2023
©️ 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐍 𝐁𝐈𝐑𝐆𝐄𝐍#GBUS pic.twitter.com/7Rlwdhd9vD
Birgen will be taking over the captain’s armband from goalkeeper James Saruni, who served as the club’s captain in the previous season. Birgen has been a part of Ulinzi Stars since his debut in the senior team back in 2014.
About Ulinzi Stars new skipper
Birgen, who is a versatile player capable of playing both as a defender and an offensive midfielder, has strong football roots. He is the son of Joe Birgen, a former Kenyan international footballer who also had a military background.
Birgen’s journey in sports started with rugby during his high school days at Nakuru Day, where he played as a fly-half. He later moved to Jamhuri High School.
His football career began when he participated in the 2011 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) U-19 tournament. Afterwards, he joined the military.
During his time with the Defense Force, he joined Ulinzi Warriors, a feeder team for Ulinzi Stars, which was also competing in the FKF Provincial League.
Joining Ulinzi Stars senior team
It was in 2014 that coach Robert Matano recognized his potential and invited him to join the Ulinzi Stars senior team.
Birgen has made significant contributions to the team, including winning the East Africa Military Games title on three occasions and reaching the finals of the GOtv Shield Cup in 2016.
He has also had the honour of representing the national team. His outstanding performances led to his first call-up, and he earned numerous caps while playing under former U23 national team head coach Bobby Williamson.
As they prepare for the new season, Ulinzi Stars have also made changes to their coaching staff, appointing former AFC Leopards coach Anthony Kimani as the new head coach. They will kick off their campaign with a match against Nzoia Sugar.