Ruto’s visit has brought calm, focus and motivation to Harambee Stars - coach McCarthy
Coach McCarthy described the president’s presence as a calming force and a source of great pride for the players following the head of state’s pledge of lucrative rewards for the team.
Ahead of their much-anticipated CHAN 2024 opener against DR Congo, Harambee Stars head coach Bennie McCarthy says President William Ruto’s visit to the team has not only brought excitement but also a sense of calm and purpose into the squad.
Speaking to The Eastleigh Voice during a pre-match press conference at Kasarani, McCarthy described the president’s presence as a calming force and a source of great pride for the players following the head of state’s pledge of lucrative rewards for the team.
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Each player stands to receive Sh1 million for every win, Sh500,000 for a draw, Sh60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, Sh70 million for a semifinal berth, and a massive Sh600 million if they lift the title.
“I think it's a great privilege for anybody, not just the players, when you get to meet the president of your country. So we've been very blessed and fortunate enough to have interacted with the president on more than one occasion,” said McCarthy.
He added: “He brings a good calmness to the players because of the immense pressure that he's under daily, being the head of state. I think he's in the best possible position to help the players understand what this game of football, what tomorrow, and what the CHAN tournament can bring to the nation.”
The South African tactician said the players were thrilled to receive the president, and the news of financial incentives, which he believes will drive them to perform even better.
“Hopefully, all that meeting the president, receiving such good news, will help us to push our game even more. Not just to be successful for ourselves and our families, but for the national team, for the nation, and to extend our stay in this beautiful competition,” said McCarthy.
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