Omondi keen to end Pipeline’s African title drought
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 31.03.25. | 10:15
Their last continental title was in 2005 in Nairobi when they thrashed Egyptian giants Al Ahly in straight sets
It has been two decades since Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) former women’s champions Pipeline lifted the Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB) Africa Club Championships, and as they head to Abuja, Nigeria, for this year’s edition, hopes are high.
The Geoffrey Omondi-coached side believes they are well-prepared and determined to bring home the title as they go to battle from Tuesday, 1 to Monday, 14 April.
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“We have played some friendly matches to gauge ourselves ahead of the continental competition, and the players are in high spirits and are ready to reclaim the trophy,” Omondi told the media ahead of the team’s departure to the West African country.
Omondi has named a squad that is a mix of youth and experience, with Immaculate Nekesa and Faith Imodia up for selection as the setters. Noel Murambi and Loice Simiyu are the opposites, while Marian Sokoiyo, Trizah Atuka, skipper Gladys Ekaru, and Lydia Emokol are the middle blockers.
Left attackers include Daisy Leting, Leonida Kasaya, Mariam Musa, and Betty Sifuna, while the liberos will be Agrippina Kundu and Celestine Nafula.
The team is looking to make up for their shortcomings at the recently concluded (CAVB) Zone V Clubs Championship in Kampala, where they fell short in the final, relinquishing the title after a 3-1 (25-20, 17-25, 24-26, 23-25) loss to Rwanda Patriotic Army (APR) at the Lugogo Indoor Arena.
Despite the loss, Pipeline stars Kasaya and Simiyu had exceptional performances and are determined to carry their fine form into Abuja. Kasaya was the best outside hitter, and Simiyu was the best server.
Team captain Ekaru reiterated Omondi’s sentiments, emphasizing the team’s determination and confidence.
"Our training has been intense, and the friendly matches have really helped us fine-tune our game. We are fully focused and motivated to give our best and make our fans proud," she said.
The oil merchants will be flying the national flag at the two-week competition, alongside fellow countrywomen, Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) and Kenya Prisons.
The three are among 24 teams that will be battling for glory in Abuja, including defending champions Zamalek of Egypt.
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