Rebecca “Becky” Okwaro, at 27, is quickly becoming one of the most notable names in the Football Kenya Federation Women’s Premier League (FKF-WPL) for the 2023/24 season. Playing as a forward for Kenya Police Bullets, formerly known as Thika Queens, Becky has demonstrated exceptional skill and prowess on the field. With seven matches left in the season, she has already scored nine goals and provided four assists in just nine league matches, positioning herself just one goal behind the league’s top scorer.
Early Beginnings
Becky’s football journey began in the Rhoda area of Nakuru County, where she honed her skills playing with her elder brothers. This early exposure to the game, coupled with her natural talent, allowed her to excel on the field without formal training in a football academy. Her passion for the game and impressive performance earned her a scholarship to Wiyeta Girls Secondary School in Kitale after completing her primary education at Philadelphia Academy Charter School in Nakuru.
Football and Education
Understanding the importance of education alongside her sports career, Becky pursued a diploma in Project Management at the Kenya Institute of Management (KIMS) in Nakuru after high school. During this time, she took a break from professional football to focus on her studies and work at Solinc, a solar-producing company in Nakuru. However, her love for football brought her back to the field in 2019, leading to stints with Oserian Ladies and Nakuru Queens before returning to her roots at Thika Queens, now Kenya Police Bullets.
Family Support and Career Aspirations
Despite the challenges women face in football, Becky’s family, especially her father, has been a pillar of support, encouraging her to pursue her passion. As a full-time professional footballer, Becky is dedicated to advancing her career, with dreams of playing internationally and proving that football can indeed be a rewarding profession for women.
Achievements and Future Goals
Becky’s outstanding performance in the FKF-WPL has not only contributed to her team’s success but also earned her a spot in the national team, the Harambee Starlets. Her resilience, evident in her comeback from an arm injury and her continuous effort to improve her game, mirrors her role model Cristiano Ronaldo’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
Challenges and Resilience
Injuries are an inevitable part of any athlete’s career, and Becky is no stranger to them. A significant arm fracture during a match against Wadadia last season was a major setback, leading to her release from her former team. However, her spirit remained unbroken, and her return to the field has been nothing short of inspirational.
With a five-year contract with Kenya Police, Becky is open to the possibility of joining the police service in the future, seeing it as an honor to serve her country in another capacity. Her ambition to win the Golden Boot this season is a testament to her dedication and hard work, aiming to leave an indelible mark in the world of football.
Becky Okwaro’s journey from the streets of Nakuru to the national team and the top tiers of Kenyan women’s football is a story of perseverance, talent, and the unyielding support of family. As she continues to chase her dreams on the football field, her story serves as an inspiration to many young girls in Kenya and beyond, proving that with passion and determination, the sky is the limit.
