Long serving swimming coach Linet Atieno passes away

The Kenya Aquatics community is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Linet Atieno, revered swim coach at Greensteds International School in Nakuru.

In a short communique by the swimming federation, Kenya Aquatics confirmed her untimely demise, and paid tribute to her as “highly regarded in swimming and broader sports circles for her exceptional coaching skills and her ability to maintain a controversy-free, respected persona.”

Recently serving as the overall head in the sports and swimming department at Greensteds International School, Nakuru, Atieno, referred to as ‘Nyar Alego’ possessed a profound understanding of swimming coaching and officiating, having spent numerous years in the field.

Her notable coaching legacy included stints as head coach of Loreto Msongari High school, where she trained several prominent swimmers including Stephanie Mwaura, ex-captain of the KU Piranaz Swimming Team.

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She also played a role in nurturing a generation of swimmers, many of whom have gone on to achieve success in swimming careers both domestically and abroad.

Along with the late Patrick Muyah, former President of the Kenya Swimming Federation, Atieno was a cornerstone in the establishment of the Kenya Sports Coaches Welfare Association (KSCWA), which brought coaches together for mutual support, investment, and networking.

She also played a key role in supporting the annual PIPSSA Mini Olympics at Greensteds, a pivotal event that attracted schools from Rift Valley, Nyanza, Central, and Nairobi.

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David Weru, the Chairperson of the Kenya Sports Coaches Association, also paid tribute to her, highlighting her significant contributions and describing her as a vital asset to the sports fraternity.

In response to her passing, coaches from various regions are collaborating to raise funds for her hospital expenses, and to organize a respectful send-off, set for 20 January in Umaje Village, North Alego, Siaya County.

Here at Mozzart Sport, we extend our deepest condolences to the family of Linet Atieno, and to the entire Kenya Aquatics community.