Munala returns as Malkia Strikers coach

Malkia Strikers assistant coach Japheth Munala has been elevated to the position of head coach, replacing Paul Bitok, who will now focus on his administrative duties following his election as deputy president.

The veteran tactician, who also serves as the KCB women’s team coach, is not new to the position, as he served as the Malkia Strikers boss between 2015 and 2018. His last task as Malkia Strikers boss was the 2018 World Championship in Japan. In 2019, when Bittok took over, he was named his assistant.

Munala will be assisted by Kenya Pipeline’s coach, Paul Gitau, and Kenya Prisons’ women's team coach, Josp Barasa. Their immediate assignment is the East Africa Community Games set for Rwanda in November 20-23. The Federation's deputy secretary-general, John Odhiambo, will serve as the team manager for both women’s and men’s national teams.

For the men’s team, Wafalme, Gideon Tarus, who also doubles up as the General Service Unit head coach, has been retained, and he will be assisted by Kenya Prisons’ men’s team coach Dennis Mokua and Kenya Defence Forces’ Elisha Aliwa.

“We believe that these appointments will contribute to the success of our teams in these upcoming competitions. We appreciate your dedication and commitment to volleyball in Kenya, and we look forward to achieving great results in both the East African Community Games and the beach volleyball events.” The federation secretary general, Ismail Chege said.

For beach volleyball, Patrick Owino retains his position on the men’s team, while Ibrahim Oduor will serve as team manager. For the women’s team, Sally Wanjala returns as head coach, while former Malkia Strikers captain Brackcides Agala will serve as team manager.

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