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Kenya Pipeline's Kasaya, Simiyu set sights on African Clubs Championship
Leonida Kasaya and Gladys Ekaru (left) of Kenya Pipeline block DCI's Mercy Iminza's attack during their KVF National Women's League match at Nyayo National Stadium on January 26,2025.
What you need to know:
- As the African Clubs Championship approaches, Kasaya, Simiyu, and Esokon will be eager to make an impact on the continental stage.
After securing individual awards at the recently concluded Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB) Zone V Clubs Championship in Kampala, Uganda, Kenya Pipeline stars Leonida Kasaya and Loice Simiyu are determined to carry their fine form into the upcoming African Clubs Championship set for April 1-14 in Abuja, Nigeria.
Kasaya and Simiyu, both key players for the national team, Malkia Strikers, were recognised for their exceptional performances—Kasaya as the Best Outside Hitter and Simiyu as the Best Server.
Despite their individual brilliance, Pipeline fell short in the final, relinquishing the title after 3-1 (25-20, 17-25, 24-26, 23-25) loss to Rwanda Patriotic Army (APR) at the Lugogo Indoor Arena.
The Oilers, who won the 2024 edition in Kigali by defeating Rwanda Revenue Authority 3-0, struggled to replicate their dominance this time, falling to the relatively unheralded Rwandan side.
For Kasaya, the accolade marks a significant milestone in her decade-long volleyball career and fuels her ambitions for the upcoming African Clubs Championship, where she now sets her sights on the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
“This is my first international award, having played the sport for over 10 years. I’m happy and humbled at the same time, but my focus now is on the club’s championship. I know later in the year we have a national team assignment (World Championship in Thailand), and I intend to push to retain a spot in the team.
The award has motivated me to aim for more,” said Kasaya, who previously had a stint with KCB Women’s Volleyball Team.
Simiyu, who also plays as a setter, credited hard work and dedication for her recent success.
“I was not a jump server before, but I’m glad that I’m now mastering the act, and it has come with an award. I have put in the work, and I’m extremely happy that the efforts have paid off. My focus is on the African Clubs Championship, and I hope to carry this form into the event and hopefully earn another award. I’m also eyeing inclusion in the national team, having been part of the Paris Olympic Games,” said Simiyu, a former Kwanthanze Secondary School player.
Meanwhile, Denis Esokon, who signed for APR from Kenya Prisons this season, was named Best Outside Hitter after playing a crucial role in APR’s victory.
The Rwandan side clinched the men’s title after defeating compatriots and former champions Rwanda National Police 3-1 (26-24, 19-25, 25-18, 25-21) in the final.
Esokon, who was named MVP of the Kenya Volleyball Federation National League play-offs last season, continues to impress at the club level.
As the African Clubs Championship approaches, Kasaya, Simiyu, and Esokon will be eager to make an impact on the continental stage.
