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By Francis Ontomwa

 Eldoret, Kenya: Veteran coach Chris Makokha, who has been credited with the identification and exposure of several star players in the country, passed on Sunday while undergoing treatment at the Eldoret Moi Referral Hospital.

Makokha was the father of famous ‘near post soccer’, ‘kiss the grass technique’ and godfather of Kakamega High’s Green Commandos team.

The former national football team Harambee Stars tactician succumbed to diabetes and heart complications on Sunday night, ending a life, which he had dedicated to football.

Many remember the late Makokha as the man, who donned thick lenses with a characteristic slow motion walking style and his passion for the sport saw him rooted on touchlines at all times.

He was Brazilian trained, humorous and steadfast tactician. He died aged 62.

Makokha guided Harambee Stars in 1988 taking over from the Late Reinhardt Fabisch (Germany). He was succeeded by Mohammed Kheri.

His death left a sombre mood at Kakamega High, the same school the former Mathematics and Physics tutor baked football talents.

“Kakamega High School has lost an icon, he is the father of the crispy kind of soccer Commandos play and his loss is a major blow to us and the entire nation,” eulogised Kakamega Principal Oliver Minishi.

“The late was smart even in the academics, we taught Physics together and despite his tight soccer schedules he would finish the syllabus in good time.”

A long list of top coaches and players trace their prowess to the father of four. They include veteran players Dennis Munyendo, Dan Musuku, Muhoroni Youth Coach Alfred Imonje, Western Stima assistant coach Hezbon Nyabinge, West Kenya Coach Eliud Omukuya, coach Brendan Mwinamo and former Commandos’ coach Vitalis Kangaya. Other top players he nurtured are French League star Dennis Oliech (Ajaccio), former players Peter Lichungu, Michael Obonyo, Patrick Mugata, Patrick Silasi and George ‘Nyangi’ Odembo.

Alongsode Harambee Styars, Makokha had stints with MoW FC later renamed Motcom FC, AFC Leopards, Western Stima and Kakamega Rush FC. He bagged 10 national championship medals with the Green Comandos between 1979 and 1985

Makokha leaves behind a widow Sebronia Mukhami and four children — Priscah, Irene, Lorna and Juvenalis.

Veteran coach Imonje said Makokha was his mentor in coaching.

“He was great disciplinarian, had a philosophy in soccer and his skills trickled down to all those in football today. He was one of the best the country has ever had,”

Former player and current Football Kenya Federation Western branch chairman Andrew Amukowa condoled with the family.