Pipeline flagged off for Nigeria with African title in mind

Seasoned middle blocker Trizah Atuka and outside hitter Leonida Kasaya headline the 14-member that will be captained by Gladys Ekaru as the Oilers seek to reclaim the continental title following years of near misses with their last victory dating back to 2005.

Faith Imodia will partner Emmeculate Nekesa in the setter position in continental assignment debut after former captain Rose Magoi was dropped while middle blocker Marian Sokoiyo will represent the club in the championship for the first time, alongside Atuka, Lydia Emikol and Ekaru.

With powerful outside hitter Pamela Adhiambo currently in a professional stint with Finish side LP Viest, Kasaya will be helped by rookies Mariam Musa and Betty Sifuna, and Daisy Letting, who will be making her second appearance at the championship.

Dependable Loice Simiyu will partner seasoned opposite hitter Noel Murambi while evergreen Kundu and Celestine Nafula complete the line in the libero positions.

The Oilers have conquered the continent six times (2005, 2004, 2002, 2001, 1998, 1995) but have failed regain their stranglehold lately finishing third last year and runners up in 2023.

KPC Managing Director Joe Sang, who presided over the flagging-off ceremony at Moi International Sports Centre (MISC), Kasarani, reaffirmed the company’s unwavering support for sports development in the country.

“Sports for us means a lot. We have invested in volleyball for over forty years. We use the volleyball team as our brand ambassador to tell the world what we do,” said Sang.

Sang further commended the team’s dedication and resilience and expressed his confidence in the team that they will represent Kenya well and emerge victorious.

Head coach Geoffrey Omondi, who will be making his debut at the championship with the Oilers, said the team was well-prepared and determined to bring home the title.

‘‘We stepped up our preparations. We have had two friendlies, and we still want to have two more that will give us a final gauge of where we are. The girls are in high spirits and are ready to bring back the trophy,’’ stated Omondi.

Captain Ekaru, reiterated similar sentiments, emphasizing the team’s determination and confidence.

"Our training has been intense, and the friendly matches have really helped us fine-tune our game. We are fully focused and motivated to give our best and make our fans proud," she said.

Kenya Pipeline will be joined in the championship by KCB and Kenya Prisons as they look forward to battle other top clubs from Africa.