Striker David Polepole and defender George Odhiambo are eyeing a breakthrough season at Tusker FC after being promoted from the junior side ahead of the 2025/26 FKF Premier League campaign.
Polepole, a sharp-shooting front-man, has penned a three-year deal, while Odhiambo, a no-nonsense centre-back, signed a two-year contract as both players bid to establish themselves in the Brewers' senior ranks. Tusker confirmed the promotions in a statement, praising the pair’s standout performances in the junior set-up.
"The duo has impressed the technical bench with their dedication, skill and consistency, earning their places among the senior squad after a series of strong performances in the junior ranks and during recent training sessions and match day experiences with the first team," the statement read.
Polepole, known for his physical presence and eye for goal, was a constant menace in the youth team’s attack, netting 15 goals and providing six assists in the just-concluded season. His blistering form earned him senior call-ups, where he featured in five matches, scoring once and setting up two goals.
However, his momentum was halted by a nagging groin injury. The 20-year-old views his promotion as a reward for hard work and a springboard to greater heights. "This is a big achievement in my career. It's not easy getting such a chance. This is a huge step ahead for me."
The youthful striker who lives under a self-proclaimed mantra of "leaving a mark" is determined to take his chance in stride. "My biggest motivation is to always win, aligned with my principal, which is to leave a mark," he said. Polepole hopes to sharpen his skills a game at a time in the senior ranks.
"As an attacker, you always have to give good performances. You are expected to score goals, perform well and create chances. I hope to give my best one game at a time. I believe I can achieve more in the senior team."
On the other end of the pitch, Odhiambo has earned plaudits for his commanding presence in defence and natural leadership qualities. The towering centre-half captained the junior side for the past two seasons and contributed an impressive four goals and five assists this season.Odhiambo believes his stints with the senior team in training and matchday squads were crucial in building his confidence.
"I used to train with the senior team, then go back to train with the junior team. That has helped me boost my confidence, which led to the coach calling me up to the senior team," Odhiambo said. Odhiambo also relished the experience of facing top-flight opposition. "I played three games in the senior team. Two of them were big games against Gor Mahia and Kenya Police, which helped me gain experience."
Head coach Charles Okere, who worked with both players in the youth set-up, backed the duo to make the step up. "David and George have shown great potential and a strong work ethic. They have earned this opportunity, and we believe they have what it takes to contribute at the top level."
