Kenya Prisons eye elusive Africa Club Championship title

Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) women’s league champions Kenya Prisons have made the local title theirs for the last three seasons, taking over from Kenya Pipeline who had dominated the local scene before that.

At the helm for the three seasons has been Josp Barasa who, after clinching the 2021 KVF league title over the weekend in Mombasa says the focus will now shift to chasing the elusive Africa Club Championship title.

Prisons have come short in their attempt to reclaim the continental title last won in 2013 when they ruled in the showpiece held in Madagascar to be crowned champions before the rise of North Africa Clubs.

“It has not been easy to dominate in local volleyball which is very competitive but we have done it. Sticking to the basics and playing to our strengths has played a big role in winning back-to-back titles. I congratulate myself and the rest of the team for this. 

However, focus now shifts to the African competition. The North Africans have managed to muscle their way to the helm and dominate continental volleyball but I am hoping to change that," said Barasa. 

The tactician reiterated the importance of strength and conditioning for his players, further confirming that he has already introduced it to his players and is looking forward to reaping from the investment soon. 

"We have a ticket to the next Africa Club Championship, set for early next year, so as the league throws off so do our preparations for the continental competition. This year the team missed eight key players but still managed to get to the podium for third place. With the entire squad available for the next event, I am confident we can win and bring the elusive title home," added Barasa. 

Meanwhile, KVF is looking to begin the next season (2021/22) in October as part their plans to align the local league with the international governing body, FIVB's calendar where leagues conclude in May. 

The federation us set to reveal the full plan for the league action once the national teams return from Africa Nations Cup set to run between 5 to 20 September in Kigali, Rwanda. KVF first Vice President Charles Nyaberi while confirming the same said the plan is to have the league played indoors