Coach Mukopi eyeing bright debut in Kenya Volleyball top league

Chema Volleyball Club head coach Jeremiah Mukopi Shikanga is brimming with pride after guiding his team to a successful Division Two campaign, securing promotion to the top tier of Kenyan volleyball.

Reflecting on the season, the seasoned tactician described the journey as intense and competitive, praising the quality across the division.

“Being crowned champions was no walk in the park. The level of competition was very high, and every side brought its best,” Mukopi said.

“This isn’t my first promotion, I achieved the same with Kenya Airports Authority Men team back in 2009. But this one was particularly intense.”

Mukopi, who has had stints at Kenya Airways, Equity Bank, General Service Unit, and most recently Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) before joining the division two side says his side is prepared for the challenge and won’t be overwhelmed by the pressure of top-flight competition.

“We are ready to face the big boys. By all standards, we will match them and be competitive,” Mukopi affirmed.

The team recently participated in the Rwanda Genocide Memorial Volleyball Tournament, a move Mukopi described as crucial in preparing the squad mentally and technically for their new challenge.

“It was our first regional outing for most of the players, and it gave them a taste of what to expect in the top flight,” he noted. “Beating Kenya Cup finalists KPA in the semifinals was a big moment for us, and although we lost to REG VC in the final, it was a huge learning curve.”

Mukopi revealed that the tournament brought a renewed sense of purpose to the team.

“After Kigali, the mood in training completely shifted. The boys are more motivated than ever and want to make a mark in the league."

To strengthen the squad, the club is planning to bring in new talent ahead of the season.

“At this level, we need to inject fresh energy and experience. There will definitely be new faces joining us."

Among the new signings is Libero Bethoven Okombo, who joins from Equity Bank, bringing valuable top-flight experience to the team.

Chema FC will be joined by Eldowas as the two newly promoted sides to the Kenya Volleyball League following their impressive runs in Division Two.

Meanwhile, it was the end of the road for Mt. Kenya Base Yetu and the Department of Defence (DOD), who have been relegated from Division One after struggling to maintain form throughout the season.