Kenya Pipeline coach Omondi says his team is ready for Zone V battle in Kampala

Kenya Pipeline volleyball team coach Geoffrey Omondi has said his team was ready for the CAVB Africa Zone V Club Championships that serves off in Kampala, Uganda on Wednesday.

The oil merchants who are the defending champions will be the red hot favourites to retain the title as most of the top sides in the region have given the tournament a wide berth.

Pipeline was flagged off at their offices in Industrial Area on Tuesday and Omondi has promised his team will fight hard to retain the title.

"Our preparations for the last couple of weeks have been intensive and focused. The players are in high spirits and eager to showcase their talent. Our aim is to bring the trophy back home," Omondi said.

Kenya Volleyball Federation league champions KCB Bank and former champions Prison Kenya who were expected to challenge Pipeline for the trophy will not be travelling to Uganda for the event.

Pipeline will be led by a number of Malkia Strikers players and key among them is the national team captain in middle blocker Trizah Atuka.

Another national team player in Pipeline squad is libero Aggripina Kundu. Others are Leonida Kasaya and Gladys Ekaru.

Over 20 teams will battle it out for the coveted title at the Zone V tournament.

Armée Patriotique Rwandaise, Rwanda National Police, Tanzania Prisons Services, Sport-S, KCCA, Vision Volleyball Camp, Ndejje University Elites and KCB-Nkumba are among the teams who will be eyeing glory in Kampala.

Speaking while flagging off the team, KPC Managing Director Joe Sang expressed confidence in the team's preparation.

"KPC volleyball team is the only Kenyan team taking part in this year’s CAVB Africa Zone V championship. This is testament to the resilience, skill, and dedication that the team has consistently demonstrated. We are confident they will represent the Company and the nation with distinction in Kampala and bring the title home for the second time. We extend our full support and best wishes as they depart for Uganda," Sang said.

Sang also encouraged the spirit of teamwork, support, trust and mental grit among the players.

Kenya Pipeline squad to Zone V tournament

Setters: Emmaculate Nekesa, Faith Imodia

Opposites: Noel Murambi, Loice Simiyu

Centres: Marian Sokoiyo, Trizah Atuka, Gladys Ekaru, Lydia Emokol

Left attackers: Daisy Leting, Leonida Kasaya, Mariam Musa, Betty Sifuna

Liberos: Agripina Kundu, Celestine Nafula