The Star sports reporter Tony Mballa was honoured at the 2025/26 SportPesa Premier League Gala Awards after being named first runner-up in the Sports Journalism category.
Mballa received the Golden Pen recognition during a colourful ceremony held at Glee Hotel in Nairobi on Thursday night. The event brought together players, coaches, club officials, sponsors, and media practitioners to celebrate excellence during the just-concluded football season.
Recognition for Outstanding Coverage
The award recognised Mballa’s significant contribution to sports journalism and his extensive coverage of Kenyan football throughout the campaign.
Speaking after receiving the accolade, Mballa described the recognition as a significant milestone in his career.
"This is a moment I will never forget in my career. To stand among the best sports journalists in Kenya and be recognised at this level is truly special," he said.
Dedication and Gratitude
Mballa has become a familiar voice in Kenyan football reporting through his match reports, exclusive interviews, feature stories, and analysis of the local game. Over the course of the season, his reporting chronicled key developments in the SportPesa Premier League.
"I am truly honoured to be named first runner-up. It is not just my achievement, but a reflection of the hard work behind every story I have written this season," he said.
He dedicated the award to his colleagues, editors, and readers who have supported his work.
"I dedicate this recognition to every editor who has pushed me to be better, every colleague who has challenged my work and every reader who has believed in my stories. Special thanks to my editors for their constant support, guidance and belief in my work even when the pressure was high."
A Growing Career in Sports Journalism
Mballa noted that the recognition comes at a time when sports journalism is evolving rapidly amid growing digital audiences and changing news consumption habits.
"I see this as fuel to keep going, to keep pushing harder and to keep telling the stories of our football with honesty and passion," he said.
"I accept this award with a deep sense of responsibility. The game is growing, the audience is growing and we as journalists must grow with it."
Stars Honoured on the Pitch
The gala also celebrated excellence on the field. Gor Mahia midfielder Enock Morrison emerged as one of the biggest winners after being named both Most Valuable Player and Midfielder of the Season.
Coach Charles Akonnor was recognised as Coach of the Season, while Murang’a Seal striker Joseph Waithira and Ulinzi Stars forward Paul Okoth shared the Golden Boot award after finishing the season with 19 goals each.
