Kenya Pipeline, General Service Unit and Equity are among clubs that have confirmed participation at the inaugural Heroes Community Volleyball tournament set for Koitalel University next week.
The tournament — a brainchild of Malkia Strikers coach Paul Bitok, who is also the patron — will be played on October 16 and 17. The former Rwanda coach, who recently hinted at moving into management, wants the event to become an annual event with an international outlook.
"Hopefully from 2022 this competition will be international and open to everyone," Bitok said, adding that they are expecting more than 50 teams next week.
The tournament, which seeks to honour sportspersons in the Rift Valley, got off to a dream start after donations from various stakeholders.
Kenya Volleyball Federation vice president Charles Nyaberi made a donation of trophies and medals that will be presented to the winners during a media briefing at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei chipped in Sh100,000 as Chesumei Constituency Member of Parliament Wilson Kogo offered Sh50,000.
Yokora Sports — a sports equipment hub located at Two Rivers Mall, Nairobi, donated pairs of shoes.
Nyaberi said the tournament comes at the right time with the league currently in recess.
"The federation is pleased to see the birth of another tournament and this is opportune because we are off-season," said Nyaberi.
"KVF is determined to give back where it has been reaping from and the federation will put up centres of excellence for systemic development of talent."
Cherargei called for fair competition and challenged the participants to enjoy themselves.
"Don't play to win, play with your heart out for the benefit of your health. Sports is a way of preaching peace for you can win and lose and life continues," he said.
"We need to teach the political class that it's not a matter of do or die. If you win, celebrate with moderation. Let it be known that Nandi continues to be the bedrock of volleyball in Kenya and home of champions."
