Okoth's football journey began in Siaya County, before moving to Salem Sportiff, Jericho All Stars, Congo United, Gor Mahia, Mahakama, Nairobi Stima, Western Stima, Mathare United, KCB and Sofapaka.

When he retired at 32 in August 2020, as reported by Goal, Okoth's story took an unexpected turn, fueled not by personal glory, but by a desire to empower the next generation of Kenyan footballers.

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In an exclusive interview with Sports Brief, Okoth shared his inspiration for diving headfirst into coaching right after hanging up his boots.

"I have been playing football all my life, it has been all that I know, and I have been passionate about it. It has done so much for me. I always wanted to own my team," he said.

The seed for this transformation was sown early. Having navigated the challenges of a nascent football scene without the guidance of a formal academy, Okoth vowed to bridge the gap for future generations.

In 2020, R.O. Sports & RO Sports Soccer Academy was founded, a dual entity with a mission as profound as its name. The licensed Level 3 institution, with branches in Westlands and Eastlands, wasn't just about churning out footballing prodigies but shaping well-rounded individuals through the beautiful game.

The project was also about giving back to the community that shaped him.

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"I missed a lot of things. I wanted to teach football the right way, work with age-based coaches, and use football as an avenue to grow. This philosophy permeates every aspect of the academy. The focus isn't solely on moulding footballing finesse, but on nurturing life skills," Okoth stressed.

Okoth's playing career isn't merely a footnote in his coaching philosophy; it's the foundation he builds. The lessons learned from his coaches, the triumphs and tribulations of professional football, all find their way into his interactions with his young trainees.

"Working with kids is more of development, but working with adults, it’s more of results. I have experienced a lot of ups and downs and looked at them positively… and I try to put those into my kids," he explains.

This holistic approach fosters confident players who understand the game not just on the pitch, but also in the grander scheme of life. Okoth understands that for most of these kids, the path to professional football is narrow, and the academy equips them with the tools to excel in other avenues.

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But his vision extends beyond individual development. He recognizes the transformative power of football in addressing societal issues.

"It was a way of helping them channel that energy into something else," he said.

Challenges of the Game

Running an academy in Nairobi isn't without its challenges. Financial constraints, limited facilities and even overzealous parents pose constant hurdles.

"When you don’t have sponsors, donors and well-wishers, everything is always from your pocket…and it becomes hard when you are not getting any returns," he shares.

Beyond coaching, Okoth wears multiple hats as a mentor, friend, teacher, and disciplinarian. His ability to connect with players and build meaningful relationships has been crucial in the academy's success.

"When you do things the right way, you build that bond with the players and become like a father figure to them, wearing different hats at different times," he states.

AFCON 2023 Predictions and Ambitions

As a football pundit on mainstream media, Okoth makes a cheeky AFCON 2023 prediction.

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"I would have loved DRC Congo to win, but that’s a long shot. But Senegal is most likely to retain the trophy."

He harbours ambitions to one day be on the Harambee Stars technical bench.

Ronald Okoth's journey, marked by dedication, passion, and a commitment to community development through football, paints a vivid picture of a man who has not just played the game but is actively shaping its future, as described in his biography.