Coach Jepkosgei keen to reclaim Pipeline's continental title

Former African and Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) women's league champions Kenya Pipeline's head coach, Esther Jepkosgei is on a mission.

The former national team player and trainer took over as Pipeline's head coach in February after the exit of 2023 league-winning coach Paul Gitau, who was asked by the company management to step down due to alleged misconduct.

In her first tournament as head coach, the Kenya Pipeline @50 anniversary celebrations, coach Jepkosgei delivered her first title, a feat that has her riled up for the upcoming Africa Club Championships.

Speaking after leading her charges to a sweep of national title holders Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), the tactician says this will is not only a morale booster for her players ahead of the Club Championships set for April 24 to May 5 in Cairo, but a testament to her that she can deliver the continental title for her employer.

“This is a dream come true. It is not only a title for my team in an event our company has organized but a confirmation to us that we have what it takes to be the best in the continent. As we head to Cairo, I have my sights set on bringing the trophy home,” she offered.

Under coach Gitau, the oil merchants reached the final last year, raising hopes that they would finally end their long wait for the African trophy that dates back to 2005, only to fall 3-1 to Zamalek of Egypt.

Against Zamalek, Pipeline lost the opening set 25-22 before hitting back to take the second set 25-18. The Egyptians claimed the third set in 25-15 before sealing the fourth set in 25-17

By winning silver, the then-Kenyan champions registered an improvement from last year’s tournament, where they claimed bronze.