Kenya Pipeline appoint Geoffrey Omondi as new coach

Omondi, who doubles up as the national Under-18 men’s assistant coach, joins the Oilers from Trailblazers Men’s Volleyball team where he has been serving in the same capacity since 2022.

His two-year stint at Trailblazers has seen the outfit join the men’s top echelons and their steady rise saw the club qualify for its first KVF playoffs this year, one-year after its formation.

The former Kenyan international takes over from Esther Jepkosgei who has been serving as an interim coach since Paul Gitau was fired last November. Jepkosgei will revert to her assistant coach roles.

“I’m proud of what I have achieved with Trailblazers but it’s time to leave. The foundation we’ve set will help the club continue to chase their dreams of winning the men’s title.”

“Pipeline is a great club with a big history and I’m ready to help them get to the next level. The club has quality players and very seasoned ones who will be very helpful in our journey to build a formidable team,” he added.

Omondi’s immediate task is to improve the club’s local and continental fortunes following a below par performance recently.

The Oilers lastly won the league in 2022 and their last continental triumph dates back to 2005 but finished third in this year’s Africa Club Championships.

—Murambi, Makuto return—

The Oilers have also welcomed back seasoned outside hitter Noel Murambi and opposite attacker Violet Makuto after completion of their professional deals.

Makuto was plying her trade with United Arab Emirates (UAE) side Al Wasl while Murambi, former Malkia Strikers assistant captain, was attached to New Lemesos, a Cyprus Division A volleyball club.

“The invaluable experience I gained during my professional stint will be key as I look ahead to help Pipeline win the league title. I really thank Pipeline because they gave me a chance to play outside Kenya and now I want to repay them with good performance,” said Murambi.

Pipeline have also roped in new players ahead of the new season including KCB’s outside hitter Mariam Musa and middle blocker Mariana Lemosian.

Team captain Gladys Ekaru will continue to lead the squad into the new season and she will be assisted by Celestine Nyongesa.