Omondi turns focus to Malkia Strikers after guiding Pipeline to domestic double

Fresh from leading Kenya Pipeline to a domestic double, head coach Geoffrey Omondi has wasted no time shifting his attention to the next assignment - guiding Malkia Strikers as they seek to defend their Women's African Nations Volleyball Championship title on home soil.

Omondi wrapped up an impressive domestic campaign on Sunday, July 26, steering Kenya Pipeline to a thrilling 3-2 victory over rivals KCB in the Kenya Cup final at the Kasarani Indoor Arena.

The win came just a week after the Oilers lifted the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) National League title, completing a clean sweep of the domestic season.

With club duties now behind him, Omondi's focus turns to the 2026 Women's African Nations Volleyball Championship, set to be staged at the Kasarani Indoor Arena and Ulinzi Sports Complex from August 23 to September 5. Kenya will be chasing a record-extending 11th continental title.

The Pipeline coach says the domestic double has provided the perfect foundation for the challenge ahead.

“I'm gunning for the African Championship. I'm yet to win that trophy and that is my next goal,” he said.

Omondi credited Pipeline's success to the steady development of his squad, saying the team's improvement across key areas made the difference this season.

“The team has been steadily improving in various areas. We have really worked throughout the year.”

One of the standout performers in the Kenya Cup final was Veronica Adhiambo Oluoch, whose return added quality and experience to the Pipeline squad.

The Hapoel Kfar Saba attacker produced crucial points in the five-set victory before turning her attention to national team duty.

“I'm grateful Pipeline gave me the opportunity to come back and help the team. I'm happy we've achieved our goal, and now my focus shifts to the national team. I hope I can make a meaningful contribution there as well,” he said.

Middle blocker Marion Sokoyo said the Kenya Cup triumph was the reward for months of discipline and preparation, rather than a desire to avenge last year's defeat to KCB.

“We are so happy for winning this title. We have really been putting in more hard work because we wanted to become number one. Last year we tried but failed, but this year we were prepared and focused.”

With the domestic season complete, Omondi now turns his attention to the national team, hoping to carry Kenya Pipeline's winning momentum into Malkia Strikers' continental title defence.

Backed by a core of players fresh from a successful club campaign and home support behind them, Kenya will be aiming to extend its dominance on the African stage.