National men's volleyball coach Gideon Tarus believes Dennis Omollo's move to Oman in search of career development will be good not only for Kenyan volleyball but also for the national men's team.
The Kenya Ports Authority attacker will complete his move to Majees Sports Club of Oman in the course of this week.
He becomes the first Kenyan left attacker to ply his trade overseas, according to Tarus.
Omollo was part of the Wafalme team to the Africa Nations Championship in Rwanda in September last year, where Kenya registered a historic win against Egypt in the group stage. The towering player also represented KPA at the African Club Championship.
He becomes the second KPA player to head abroad after Enock Mogeni sealed a move to the Egyptian top-tier side, Smouha SC in November 2021. Prior to his departure to Egypt, Mogeni had captained Wafalme in Rwanda.
"I know how good he is and what he is capable of. He can only get better and develop into a complete player by gaining experience outside Kenya," Tarus observed.
" The move does not only highlight the improvement in the Kenyan volleyball but it's also vital for the national team. Now we have more than six players playing professionally across the borders," he added.
The serial winning tactician with the General Service Unit added that the future is bright for the national team.
Just like Malkia Strikers are a household name in Africa, it won't be too long before their male counterparts become the team to beat, according to Tarus.
"It is the first time a left attacker has moved outside Kenya. We need more players moving across the borders if the national team performance is to improve. Like Malkia, Wafalme will be top of Africa in a few years' time."
Joel Kosgei, KPA's team manager, said they will look to replace Omollo even though the void he has left is too big.
"We have given him our blessings even as we try to find a tailor-made replacement for him."
Team trainer James Ontere added: "Chris Owala and Ezra Kipkirui will definitely replace him. His move will open up opportunities for more talent."
He went on: "We already have four players aged 22 years and below that have not played in the KVF league. This could be an opportunity to showcase why we have kept faith in them."
