KCB are hoping to clinch the Kenya Volleyball Federation women's title to atone for their unsuccessful outing at the Africa Club Championships in Tunisia, where they wrapped up fifth.
The bankers are second on the standings with 23 points (from seven wins), two behind archrivals and five-time champions Kenya Pipeline. And as they chase Pipeline, they must keep an eye on DCI and Kenya Prisons, who are locked in their own fierce battle for third place.
"We know it's an uphill task, but we are determined to finish at the top of the table. Our quest for excellence attests to the power of teamwork and the unwavering pursuit of a dream," head coach Japheth Munala said in an exclusive interview. "We are more than just a team; we are a family, bound together by a shared passion and a common goal," he added.
The rivalry with Pipeline adds another layer of excitement, highlighting the significance of each match as a chance to establish dominance in the league.
They last basked in the thrill of continental glory in Kelibia, Tunisia, in June 2022, when they garnished their trophy cabinet with the coveted silverware after humbling Al Ahly of Egypt in the viciously fought final.
"It was a great competition. We allowed the young players to showcase their talent and skill on that level. I know we had gone all out for the trophy, but we are happy nonetheless because we put up a fight. Right now, we will focus on reclaiming our title,” Munala said of their Moroccan sojourn.
"It was a testament to our potential, a foundation upon which to build our future ambitions."
Munala urged his charges to psyche themselves up for their remaining fixtures of the season. "They should understand that volleyball, at this level, transcends mere technical skill. It demands mental fortitude, a resilience that allows players to navigate the swirling currents of pressure, to maintain composure when the stakes are highest," he said.
"We are determined to foster a strong team culture focused on collaboration and support, recognising that volleyball success relies on teamwork rather than individual talent."
A former national team head coach, Munala said his approach includes raising the profile of Kenyan volleyball on a larger scale. He envisions a team that matches the fluidity of their opponents, not just in their movements on the court, but in their strategic thinking, their adaptability and their unwavering belief in themselves.
He believes they boast sufficient depth to navigate challenges like performance pressure and injuries while maintaining adaptability to keep pace with rivals in the high-octane sport.
The squad includes Edith Wisa, Mercy Moim, Lincy Jeruto, Josphine Nafula, Belinda Barasa, Pauline Chemutai, Sharon Serem, Juliana Namutira, Shirleen Maywa, Faith Cherotich, Marlene Terry, Deborah Jesang, Sheilah Wabwire and Fridah Boke.
"Injuries are an unwelcome guest. A twisted ankle, a strained muscle – these setbacks can derail a season in an instant. We must demonstrate remarkable adaptability by adjusting our strategies," he said.
