Joe Waithira expressed deep gratitude after being presented with the Golden Boot Award at the SportPesa League 2025/26 Gala Awards on Thursday evening in Nairobi.
Waithira was also named the Players’ Player of the Year award after a stellar season that saw him outscore everyone in the SportPesa League, bagging a remarkable 19 goals throughout the campaign.
The award ceremony, a first since giant gaming firm SportPesa took charge of the Kenyan football league, was a night filled with pomp and glamor celebrating all standout performers of the just concluded 2025/26 season.
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The Murang’a Seal captains’ 19 goals during the 2025/26 SportPesa League season, helped guide his side to an eighth-place finish. Paul Okoth of Ulinzi Stars came in a close second with 18 goals at the end of the campaign.
Waithira’s exemplary performances throughout the season saw him nominated for the Most Valuable Player Award as well, however he lost out narrowly to eventual winner Enock Morrison.
“Firstly, I must thank God for bringing me this far. It’s not by accident that I am here and without Him none of it would be possible.
“I’m so happy and blessed to be gifted this award and I do not take any of it for granted. I have had an injury free season and for that I am very grateful,” the attacking midfielder told SportPesa’s Blog.
Waithira had a knack for scoring goals against the top teams in the Kenyan topflight, with two goals against Gor Mahia definitely being a highlight in his illustrious campaign.
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He also scored three goals against Bandari over both legs, with solitary goals against Kakamega Homeboyz and Nairobi United. A goal and assist against champions Police and KCB also saw him earn Man of the Match awards in both games.
“It has been a great team effort throughout the season and despite some low moments, we battled through and finished strong.
“Everyone at the club has played a huge role in winning this individual award and we can only hope for better things next season. We will work as hard as we need to so we can achieve greater things at the club,” he added after receiving the Golden Boot Award.
Murang’a held their own award ceremony following their final home game against Mara Sugar, where Waithira was crowned the clubs’ MVP.
Murang’a fought back from a goal down in their final match of the season to beat Mara 2-1, ending the season on a high.
“I’m looking forward to next season. We know the things we need to work on as a club and we are eager to show the greatness we can achieve.
“As always I have a special thank you to our fans because without them, none of this works. They are our support system and for that we are forever grateful,” Waithira concluded.