For Tedium Rodgers being locked up at the Kamiti Maximum Prison had never crossed his mind. The former Mathare United midfielder had always dreamt of playing in the English Premier League specifically Manchester United which he was and is still a staunch supporter.
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Former Mathare United midfielder picks up pieces after 20 years at Kamiti Prison
I just want to tell the youth that crime and drugs don’t pay- Teddy
Former Mathare United Midfielder Tedium Rodgers
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"Growing up I always loved football, I practically ate, slept, and dreamt football, I have always supported Manchester United as a young man and wished I would one day play for the club but my dreams were rendered invalid as one gravy mistake landed me into the jaws of Kamiti Maximum Prison," said the former Utalii FC star who found himself staring at the hangman's noose at the young age of 23.
Tedium Rogers popularly known as Tee or Teddy among his peers never imagined he would see freedom after he was sentenced to death back in the year 2000 after a robbery gone wrong.
Former Mathare United Midfielder Tedium Rodgers
Former Mathare United Midfielder Tedium Rodgers
Pulse Live Kenya
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"During my younger days playing football I had other friends outside the pitch who misled me into a life of crime that landed me in prison," said Tedium Rodgers who confessed to the crime for quick money to take care of his family.
While in prison, Rodgers coached other inmates as part of his rehabilitation and also because of his passion for football.
After his release last year, Teddy claims that the road to normal reformed life hasn’t been easy. “I want to tell the youth that crime and drugs don’t pay. Stick to what you earn and keep working hard,” says Rodgers. Betting firm Odibets through their Odimtaani initiative have decided to come through for Teddy and stand together with the former lethal midfielder by offering to start a tent-making business for him. They have offered Sh150, 000 towards the noble course.
While in prison, Teddy had learned tent-making skills and his only wish outside was to continue with the art he loved so much.
Former Mathare United Midfielder Tedium Rodgers when he was still in Prison
Former Mathare United Midfielder Tedium Rodgers
Pulse Live Kenya
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"We have decided to stand with Teddy as everyone deserves a second chance in life, he might have erred before but now he is reformed and needs to pick up the pieces from where he had left," said Aggrey Sayi.
"I never saw this coming, they have given me a chance of a lifetime, I will now pursue my tent-making skill and make the best out of it," said an elated Tedium Rodgers.
Early this year, the betting firm unveiled Charles Odongo popularly known as the ‘Ugali man’ as its brand ambassador.
Teddy also used the opportunity to caution young people to avoid crime and instead follow the long and narrow path to financial independence.
“I just want to tell the youth that crime and drugs don’t pay. Stick to what you earn and keep working hard.” Rodgers said.
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