Coach David Lugh'aho honoured for impactful career

Awards winning volleyball tactician David Lugh'aho left the coaching scene unceremoniously, last season, when his assistant took over at Prisons Kenya men's side. 

Calling time on a career spanning two decades, the experienced tactician who had handled both the Prisons men’s and women’s teams as well as the women’s national team, Malkia Strikers, was honoured on Saturday 8 June on the sidelines of the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) playoffs. 

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Following his retirement, a group of likeminded individuals came together to give the tactician, whose remarkable contributions to volleyball in Kenya and across the continent have left an indelible mark. 

"This celebration is a testament to the unwavering dedication, passion, and leadership this individual has displayed throughout his illustrious career.

It is an initiative conceived in secret by a few admirers who recognized the profound impact of his work and felt compelled to ensure his legacy is celebrated and remembered," a statement from the organiser, who ripped in the federation in the latter stages of preparation, reads. 

As a player, his professional journey began in 1986 when he joined Kenya Railways, his stay spanning years eight years, receiving his first call-up to the national team in 1989. 

He was later appointed national team captain, a role he held from 1993 to 1997. His exceptional talent as a setter led to an international playing career spanning 16 years.

In 1994, he transitioned to KCB, where he continued his career and pursued coaching. His dedication to coaching began in earnest in 1996 with his first national coaching course, followed by multiple international courses, including FIVB Level One in 1997, FIVB Level II in 2000, and FIVB Beach Volleyball.

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As a coach, his achievements are numerous.

National League Titles:

2003, 2004, 2005, 2006: National League Champions with Kenya Pipeline Volleyball Club

2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013: National League Champions with Prisons Kenya Ladies Volleyball Club

African Club Championship Titles:

2004: Gold with Pipeline

2005: Gold with Pipeline

2006: Bronze with Pipeline

2008 – Gold with Kenya Prisons

2009 - Gold with Kenya Prisons

2010 - Gold with Kenya Prisons

2011 - Gold with Kenya Prisons

2012 - Gold with Kenya Prisons

2013 – Silver with Kenya Prisons

Africa Nations Cup Gold Medals:

2005, 2007, 2011, 2013, 2015 with the national team

FIVB World Grand Prix Group III:

2015: Gold with the national team

Coach of the Year Awards:

2012, 2015: SOYA Awards – Coach of the year

2012, 2015: Magharibi Awards – Coach of the year

2018: Magharibi Coach of the Decade

Head of State Commendations:

2005: Civilian Division

2012: Military Division