‘Love for the game’ keeps Dynamo’s Kébé playing soccer into his late 30s

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“From a coach’s perspective, having a player of his quality in the group is invaluable for the younger players,” Dynamo coach Dan Griest said. “With so many of them having aspirations to continue playing after college and the NPSL, in the USL or MLS, the opportunity to play alongside a player of his caliber — day in and day out — and see his level of focus, commitment, and dedication to his craft, is truly immeasurable.”

Kébé has played in all but 30 minutes of the Dynamo’s seven league games this season — 600 or 630 possible minutes for the veteran — and has one assist.

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“His attention to detail, his understanding of the game, his positioning, and his ability to bring his absolute best each and every time he steps on the field is a standard that few players within our group can emulate consistently, and provides a constant reminder to our young players of the tremendously high standards needed to reach the professional level,” Griest said. “He is playing center back for us so he can be a leader and not wear out his body and his influence is felt the whole time.”

While his contributions to the team are immeasurable, Kébé also appreciates what the sport has given him.

“I have been playing soccer as long as I can remember, since I was a child,” he said. “It is still enjoyable for me. I have profound love for the game – that will never change.”

It’s even more enjoyable this year as the Dynamo, 4-2-1, are a much different team than the one he started for last season.

“Last year was a struggle for me,” Kébé said. “The level was too low, compared to what I am used to in my career. We didn’t train enough, which was also a big performance factor.

“We have a better team this year, the guys are working a lot harder and I know we can get better and we will.”

Dynamo Youth Day: All fans 14 and under get free admission Sunday as the Dynamo host Fort Pitt Regiment at 4 p.m. at Roger Glass Stadium.

Dayton Dutch Lions: After three road games, the Dutch Lions return home to host the Michigan Bucks at DOC Stadium, West Carrollton High School, on Wednesday at 7 p.m.

The Dayton Dutch Lions women’s team, 1-1, is on the road against the Cincinnati Sirens on Friday and hosts the Columbus Eagles Saturday at 7 p.m. at DOC Stadium. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for youth (under 18), seniors and veterans.