Aldrine Kibet has once again etched his name in the annals of Kenyan sports history by securing the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award, outshining formidable competitors, including world champions Faith Kipyegon and Mary Moraa.
Kibet’s remarkable achievement has a unique distinction—it marks the first time a schoolboy in Kenya has clinched this honor, jointly presented by LG and the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK).
“Congratulations to teenager Aldrine Kibet for being named the winner of the LG and SJAK Sports Personality of the Month Award. Kibet was named the Kenya School Games MVP after leading his team St. Anthony’s to the National Championship,” SJAK said in a statement.
The 16-year-old prodigious attacking midfielder recently added to his growing list of accolades by being named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the Kenya Secondary School Sports Association (KSSSA) games held in Kakamega last month.
His performance during the school games season was nothing short of spectacular, amassing an impressive tally of 25 goals and providing 27 assists while representing St. Anthony’s Boys Kitale.
The remarkable journey to victory saw Kibet spearhead his team, St. Anthony’s, to the National Championship with a momentous performance at Bukhungu Stadium in August.
Displaying his mettle as an extraordinary talent, Kibet contributed significantly to Solidarity Boys’ triumph, securing their sixth national title.
His exceptional football skills were on full display as he found the net twice, propelling his team to a 2-0 victory over Dagoretti High School.
Kibet shakes off competition from world champions
In contention for the prestigious award were renowned athletes such as double world champion Faith Kipyegon, who had previously claimed victory in the June and July editions of the award.
Kipyegon’s achievements included setting new world records in the 1,500m, mile, and 5,000m categories during the World Championship, solidifying her status as a global track and field sensation.
Though Faith Kipyegon was considered the hot favourite to secure her third award in four months, it was Aldrine Kibet who ultimately secured the prestigious gong.