When Kenya’s athletes returned from the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo with 11 medals, much of the celebration centred on the runners themselves. But in Nairobi this week, the spotlight shifted to the man behind the scenes.
Julius Kirwa, the veteran head coach of Team Kenya, was named the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya’s (SJAK) Coach of the Month for September. The award recognised his role in guiding the team to seven golds, two silvers, and two bronzes – a tally that placed Kenya second in the global medal table, behind only the United States.
“I want to thank you very much for recognising my work,” Kirwa said as he accepted the award on Thursday. “Coaches don’t always get the attention, but our job is to push the athletes to perform at their best. We will continue to work hard to bring more success.”
It was a moment of overdue recognition for a man whose steady hand has shaped Kenya’s athletics fortunes for years. His leadership in Tokyo was marked by discipline, tactical nous, and a calm presence in a high-pressure environment.
The championships saw some of Kenya’s biggest names rise to the occasion. Faith Kipyegon confirmed her supremacy in the women’s 1500 metres with another commanding win. Beatrice Chebet claimed two golds, while Peres Jepchirchir added a road racing crown to her collection. Faith Cherotich stormed to victory in the women’s 3000m steeplechase, setting a championship record. On the men’s side, Emmanuel Wanyonyi delivered gold in the 800m. Lilian Odira capped Kenya’s campaign with a dramatic record-breaking run in the women’s 800m on the final day.
Sports analysts say Kirwa’s ability to harness such individual brilliance into a united team effort was key. “Kenya has always had raw talent,” said a Nairobi-based athletics commentator. “What Kirwa brings is structure and belief. He knows how to get the best out of runners when it matters most.”
Yet his recognition comes amid a wider debate about the role of coaching in Kenyan sport. Many coaches have long argued that their contribution is overlooked, calling for better training opportunities and more consistent support. Kirwa himself pointed to the role of private sponsors, urging greater investment in local coaching structures.
For fans at home, however, the Tokyo medal haul was proof that Kenya remains a dominant force in world athletics. And for Kirwa, the award was a reminder that while athletes win the medals, coaches help make the victories possible.
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