Plaudits pour for history-making Kipkorir after Club Championship exploits

Kenya volleyball fraternity has united in praise for former General Service Unit (GSU) skipper and middle blocker Simion Kipkorir after making history to become the first Kenyan player to win the CAVB men’s club championship.

What’s more, the MS Boussalem (MSB) player who was instrumental in guiding his Tunisian side to the title against favourites Zamalek in a five-set thriller was named the continent’s best blocker, another first for a Kenyan in the men’s competition and made the championship’s dream team.

The 25-year-old nicknamed ‘Kosirai’ joined the Tunisian giants on a one-year deal in September last year from Saudi Arabia’s Al Ibtisam where he had been utilised as an opposite hitter.

“Congratulations to Simion "Kosirai" Kipkorir the Kenyan International Middle blocker, for his outstanding performance with MSB, the newly crowned African Champions of Club Volleyball.

Simion's exceptional skills and talent were recognized as he was honored as the Best Middle Blocker in Africa at the recently concluded CAVB Africa Men's Club Championships in Tunisia.

This remarkable achievement brings the greatest honor to his country. Hats off to Simion for his incredible contribution! (sic),” Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) wrote on their socials.

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MSB battled from two sets down to beat Zamalek Volleyball 3-2 (20-25,22-25,26-24,25-23,15-12) to win the title on their debut in the continental competition, their remarkable comeback ending Zamalek’s hopes for a treble this season having earlier won the Egyptian league and cup competitions.

Kosirai had captained GSU since 2019, having joined the Gideon Tarus-coached national champions in 2017 after a three-month stint with Ulinzi volleyball team. He is part of a squad that has lifted the coveted national title five consecutive seasons.

He was also part of the national team, Wafalme Stars, that finished ninth during the 2021 Africa Nations Volleyball Championships in Kigali, Rwanda, their most memorable performance being a win against rivals Egypt for the first time in history under coach Tarus and Sammy Mulinge. 

‘Kosirai’ is an alumnus of Malava Boys High and Cheptil Boys with whom he won two national school titles in 2014 and 2016.