International partnerships boost grassroots volleyball development in Kenya

International collaborations are playing an increasingly important role in strengthening grassroots volleyball development in Kenya, with local and global organisations joining forces to expand access to the sport for young learners.

A recent visit by a delegation from the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA), alongside representatives from global volleyball charity 'Let’s Keep the Ball Flying', highlighted ongoing efforts to nurture talent at the school level through coaching, mentorship and provision of equipment.

The initiative is being implemented locally through Trailblazers Elite Foundation, which has partnered with schools across Nairobi to introduce volleyball to children at an early age.

According to Trailblazers Elite Foundation Chief Executive Officer Leshan Julius, the programme aims to address gaps in talent identification and development by exposing children to the sport before they reach competitive levels.

“We need to identify talents at the grassroots level and develop skills at an early age so that when players reach the national league level, coaches are not spending time teaching basic skills but on game situations,” he said.

Julius explained that Trailblazers established its volleyball academy to create a sustainable pipeline of players while increasing participation in schools where the sport had little or no presence.

What began with only four children has since grown to more than 50 young players through outreach programmes. The foundation is currently working with eight schools and hopes to expand that number in the coming year.

The initiative has also helped address equipment shortages, with partner organizations providing balls, training kits and other resources to participating schools.

Trailblazers Volleyball Academy head coach Stanley Mutua said the focus is on children between six and 14 years, an age considered critical for learning the fundamentals of the game.

“We decided to start volleyball at this age because it is easier to teach the basics when children are young. It helps them become better players as they grow older,” he said.

Beyond developing athletic skills, organizers say volleyball is being used as a tool to build community and create opportunities for young people.

Lesley de Jonge, founder and executive director of Let’s Keep the Ball Flying, said the organization’s mission extends beyond the sport itself.

“Volleyball is just the vehicle, but what comes from having access to play and belong to a group is much more powerful. We are trying to spread access to volleyball, but especially to joy and community,” said Lesley de Jonge

The enthusiasm shown by Kenyan learners has also left a strong impression on members of the visiting American delegation.

“When we’re here in Kenya, the kids are super excited. We arrive at clinics and they’re already playing volleyball. They’re like sponges, they soak everything up and enjoy the experience,” said Meredith Bonee of Bring It Promotions, a U.S.-based organization that facilitates international volleyball tours.

The programme has attracted support from the AVCA, whose delegation of coaches and student-athletes has been conducting clinics and interacting with young players in Kenya.

“If we want something to grow, you need the roots, but you also need the branches and the leaves at the top. We want to help strengthen those roots while also creating pathways and opportunities for athletes to continue in the sport,” said AVCA Chief Executive Officer Jamie Gordon.

Former American college volleyball player Peyton Neff said initiatives that provide equipment and coaching can have a lasting impact on young athletes.

“We’ve been to a couple of schools that don’t have volleyballs or equipment, and just being able to give them the opportunity to learn and play the sport is really important,” she said.

With schools, local clubs and international partners working together, stakeholders believe grassroots programmes are laying the foundation for the future of volleyball in Kenya by ensuring more children have access to training, equipment and opportunities to develop their talent.

As these partnerships continue to grow, organizers hope they will not only produce better players but also create stronger communities through sport.