Express FC footballer Alpha Thierry Ssali has opened up about the role his father, legendary Ugandan musician Bebe Cool, played in shaping his football career from an early age.
Alpha, the firstborn son of Bebe Cool and Zuena Kirema, recalled how his father immediately embraced his ambition when he decided to pursue football professionally.
According to Alpha, Bebe Cool asked him what he needed to achieve his dream, prompting the youngster to tell him he wanted to become the best player possible.
“I told him, Dad, I need to be the best. I need to go to the gym,” Alpha recalled.
Bebe Cool then helped him access training facilities and equipment, while personally encouraging him to remain committed to his development.
Alpha also remembers the early days when he and his father would jog from their home in Ntinda to the gym, with Bebe Cool using the runs to motivate him to stay focused on his goal.
“Alpha, this is going to pay off whether you like it or not,” Alpha recalled his father telling him during one of their evening runs.
Bebe Cool's support has reportedly continued throughout Alpha's football journey, from helping him secure training opportunities to supporting club moves and trials abroad.
That backing has played a significant role as Alpha has progressed from youth football into the professional game.
The young defender is now playing in the Uganda Premier League with Express FC, having returned for a second spell after previously leaving the club for KCCA FC about a year and a half ago.
For Alpha, his father's involvement has been more than financial support, with Bebe Cool playing an active role in keeping his football dream alive from the very beginning.