When Mathias Kemboi played for Kenya Forest Service (KFS) during the Kenya Volleyball Federation National League in 2022, little did he know that two seasons later, he would be a household name, with a different team.
Two seasons later, setter Kemboi played an integral part in GSU’s National League title-winning campaign.
“When I linked up with the team in 2023, a lot of players had retired while many had left the club for professional stints outside the country including first setter Brian Melly,” Kemboi opened up about his volleyball journey after receiving the best setter award at the recently ended National League play-off finals at the Moi International Sports Centre, indoor arena in Nairobi.
GSU reclaim men's Kenya Volleyball Federation league title
GSU beat Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) 3-0 (25-19,25-22.25-21) to reclaim the title they lost in 2024.
“The pressure was on. GSU is a big club and the expectations from the management and the fans at large were on another level. I knew I wouldn’t fit in Melly’s shoes because he is a big name but I wanted to create a niche for myself and I must admit the first season was tough.
“We were exchanging roles with Nicholas Lagat the other setter and so it was a matter of learning. But when Melly rejoined the team, we would be under his shadows.
Kemboi, who stands at 190 cm, formed part of the GSU “Dream Team” that had the Most Valuable Player Nicholas Matui, best server Chris Owalo, best outside hitter Naftali Chumba, best opposite hitter Peter Kamara, best middle blocker Shadrack Misiko, and best libero Hudson Kipchumba.
“I hope to make it to the national team. I want to turn professional. The award has motivated me to go for more glory,” he added.
“We didn’t perform well during this year’s championship in Libya. Most of the players were making their maiden appearances and so the results were expected but I know we will have a better outing next year. We finished ninth in a 23-team event. But our focus now switches to the Kenya Cup set for next month,” said Kemboi, the last born in a family of four.
Kemboi who went to St Patrick's Iten Secondary School said he chose volleyball over basketball after Form Four as there were no basketball courts in their village, Simati has produced several elite players the likes of Melly, Kelvin Maiyo (Prisons) and Nicholas Kiplagat (GSU).
He has sampled several clubs.
“And when activities resumed in 2021, I joined KFS where I was able to settle for two seasons before I moved to GSU in 2023.I have had a rough journey and the recent accolades just go to show my determination and perseverance.
