GSU's Gideon Tarus named July Coach of the Month
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 07.08.25. | 14:54
His leadership and tactical prowess were on full display as GSU powered through the playoffs
General Service Unit (GSU) men’s volleyball head coach Gideon Tarus has been named the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Coach of the Month for July.
Tarus earned the recognition after guiding GSU to reclaim the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) National League title in a thrilling campaign that concluded at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani indoor arena.
His leadership and tactical prowess were on full display as GSU powered through the playoffs, securing their second league title in three seasons, having also lifted the trophy in 2023.
As a mark of recognition for his achievements, Tarus was promoted to the rank of Chief Inspector within the General Service Unit. He previously held the rank of Inspector.
On their way to the top, national champions GSU defeated KAPU 3-1 (28-26, 26-28, 25-15, 25-17) in the quarter-finals on Sunday, 6 July. They then brushed aside Kenya Prisons with a straight sets victory of 3-0 (25-19, 25-22, 25-20) in the semi-finals on Saturday, 12 July.
In a dramatic final held on Sunday, 13 July, GSU rallied from two sets down to stun Kenya Defence Forces 3-2 (22-25, 24-26, 26-24, 25-17, 15-12), clinching the inaugural Kenya Cup title.
Coach Tarus beat stiff competition from Japheth Munala of the KCB women's team and Strathmore University rugby head coach Willis Ojal to claim the prestigious SJAK monthly award.
In the women’s category, KCB overcame defending champions Kenya Pipeline 3-0 (25-16, 25-19, 25-22) to lift the inaugural Kenya Cup on Sunday, 13 July. The Bankers had earlier swept aside Post Bank 3-0 (25-15, 25-14, 25-23) in the quarter-finals.
Tarus thanked his team for their contribution, crediting the award to a collective effort. “I wish to express my admiration for the team’s hard work and discipline. We stayed committed and resilient throughout the season. This award is not just mine—it belongs to the entire GSU team,” said Tarus.
“It was a tough league, but we kept believing. I’m truly honoured to be named SJAK Coach of the Month. It still feels surreal.”
SJAK President James Waindi congratulated the GSU tactician and reaffirmed the purpose behind the award: “The SJAK Coach of the Month award is about celebrating the people behind the scenes who push athletes to be their best.
Coaches like Tarus deserve to be honoured for their commitment to excellence and player development. It’s important we continue highlighting their role in Kenya’s sporting success.”
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