Myles' Football Dream: Powered by a Mother's Love, Belief and Prophecy

Behind every young football talent lies an unwavering pillar of support. For Myles, a rising football star in Kenya, that pillar is none other than his mother, Rose Wamaitha, affectionately known as Mama Myles. 

She embodies determination and an immense passion for her son’s career. A former banker turned entrepreneur, she now runs her own interior design business. This career shift has allowed her to pursue her passion and given her the flexibility to support her son’s budding football journey.

“I love beauty and imagination, and designing it makes me happy,” she shares. “Being in business has given me the freedom I need to support my son’s football career.”

A Footballer from Birth

Myles was born on May 9, 2007. As a young child, he had bow legs, which initially worried his mother.

“At an early age, Myles had bow legs, and as a mother, I was deeply concerned,” Mama Myles recalls. 

However, a neighbor predicted a bright future for him in sports. On Myles’ fifth birthday, his mother invited an entertainer to perform for the children. Coincidentally, the entertainer, Benjamin, was also a football coach, though unknown to Mama Myles at the time. Benjamin immediately recognized Myles’ potential and offered to nurture his talent at Ligi Ndogo Academy, where he was coaching. This moment marked the beginning of Myles’ football journey.

“I believe Myles’ love for football began with Benjamin,” Mama Myles states.

During school sports days at Waridi Nursery School, Myles consistently stood out for his ball-handling skills. Later, when he joined Consolata School in Class One, he faced a challenge. The school’s football coach, Ronny, only allowed students from Class Four and above to join the football school club. However, Myles’ exceptional talent could not be ignored, and he soon earned a spot in the team.

“He was too good to be overlooked, and Coach Ronny allowed him to join the school football club,” his mother proudly states.

Myles under a tree at Ligi Ndogo Grounds  

Chipukizi Tournament in Arusha, Year 2015   

A Rising Star in the Making

In March 2014, Myles participated in a skills grading clinic at Ujuzi Academy while representing Consolata School at Parklands Sports Club. Officials from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) who attended the clinic immediately recognized his potential. His performance even attracted media attention, leading to a feature in the Sunday Standard Newspaper.

A feature on Myles on a Kenyan Daily

Throughout his football journey, Myles has undergone extensive training under the mentorship of Coach Benjamin, Coach Salano, and Coach Mash at Ligi Ndogo Academy. Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping his skills and career. As part of his growth, Myles had the opportunity to travel to Spain and Italy under Ligi Ndogo Academy.

According to the mum, “Traveling to Europe was a huge motivation for him. It boosted his confidence and inspired him to work harder, even in his academics.” 

His big break came in February 2015 when PUMA visited the country to launch the official ball of the Kenya Premier League, Elite One, which bore the KPL logo. As a result, they attended several tournaments, where Myles was spotted and chosen to carry the Kenya Premier League's official ball. He was also awarded a ball by PUMA representatives and featured on national television.

His mother is deeply immersed in the sport, saying, “The chaos in football makes it exciting. I love cheering for my son. Once you understand the key moments in football, everything about it becomes enjoyable.” She never misses his games, always present to support him from the sidelines.

“I’m his number one fan,” she proudly states.

Mama Myles also acknowledges the role of technology in her son’s development, adding, “Thanks to Tisini Company for providing stats and data analysis for games in Kenya. The statistics from Tisini’s agent covering GSF and St. Mary’s games have positively impacted Myles’ performance.”

Myles (standing in a Yellow Ligi Ndogo Jersey) and seated on his left hand is Chris Amimo (Co. Founder of Ligi Ndogo Football Academy). Mama Myles seated (In white with a Kenyan Flag Bandana) watching Harambee Stars game at Nyayo stadium in 2016.

Coach Ugo’s View of Myles

Currently, Myles plays for Generation Sharpfoot Academy (GSF) under Coach Philip Ugo, who has been crucial in refining his abilities. GSF is at the moment playing the FKF Regional League match.

Myles possesses exceptional technical and tactical abilities, both in offense and defense, making him a highly versatile player capable of covering multiple positions on the field. His skill set allows him to meet the demands of attack, defense, transitions, and positional play across different areas of the game. 

“Myles can effectively play as a right full-back, left full-back, attacking midfielder, right winger, left winger, and center forward.” Coach Ugo stated.

However, he has demonstrated great potential in his football career. He adds that, “with proper guidance, nurturing, and refinement, Myles has the potential to develop into a top-tier player who can make a significant impact in elite football.”

 Family Support and Achievements

Myles’ extended family has been a pillar of support, with his grandmother frequently inquiring about his progress in football. Over the years, he has reached significant milestones. In 2024, he participated in the Southampton League match under St. Mary’s School (where he is the football team captain), and he ranked among the top 7 players and was awarded a certificate.

“Sports run in the family,” Mama Myles states. “I loved netball and basketball while his cousin Kanyi played basketball at Strathmore School.”

A certificate award by Southampton Youth League

Balancing Football, Academics and Other Challenges

Despite his deep passion for football, Myles remains focused on his academics. As a candidate this year at St. Mary’s School, he is striving to balance his studies with his sports career.

“My desire is for my son to get good grades so he can secure a scholarship, either locally or internationally,” his mother shares.

Interestingly, football has also influenced family loyalties in sports. While Mama Myles supports Liverpool, Myles is a devoted Arsenal fan. Over time, his passion for Arsenal has even swayed his mother’s allegiance.

“I supported Liverpool because of the Kenyan player, Divock Origi, born in Belgium, now playing for Milan Futuro, a reserve team of Serie A Club AC Milan, I think, but my son’s devotion to Arsenal has made me a fan as well,” she explains.

However, the journey has not been without challenges. Financial constraints have been a major hurdle. “I dream of giving my son the best training or even taking him directly to Europe, but due to limited finances, my dreams are hindered,” Mama Myles laments.

Additionally, peer pressure is another concern, as she constantly encourages Myles to stay focused on his goals. “I keep reminding Myles to be disciplined and dedicated to his dreams. With hard work and focus, he will go far,”

A Mother’s Dream

Mama Myles remains steadfast in her belief that her son will achieve great things in football if he remains focused. Her dedication, sacrifices, and unwavering support continue to propel Myles toward his dream. Through her eyes, we see the power of a mother’s love, a love that nurtures talent, fosters resilience, and fuels ambition.

As Myles continues to shine on the pitch, one thing is certain: his mother will always be by his side, cheering him on every step of the way.