KCB and GSU Crowned Champions in Thrilling Kenya Cup Volleyball Finale

Nairobi, Kenya – July 14, 2025

The curtains came down on the inaugural Kenya Cup volleyball tournament in spectacular fashion on July 13, as KCB’s women’s team and the men’s side from the General Service Unit (GSU) clinched hard-fought victories to be crowned the first-ever champions of the prestigious national event.

In the women’s final, KCB delivered a commanding performance at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, defeating arch-rivals Kenya Pipeline in straight sets—25-16, 25-19, 25-22. The return of veteran setter Esther Mutinda proved decisive, as she orchestrated play with precision and composure, guiding her team to a flawless victory and their maiden Kenya Cup title.

“This is a moment of pride for KCB volleyball,” said head coach Japheth Munala. “We came in with a plan, and the team executed it perfectly. Esther’s presence on the court was a turning point, and her leadership gave us the edge.”

In stark contrast, the men’s final delivered high drama and emotional swings as GSU overcame a two-set deficit to edge out a tenacious Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) side in a five-set thriller. KDF appeared in control after claiming the first two sets 26-24 and 25-22, showcasing physical dominance and tactical sharpness.

But GSU, the reigning national league champions, mounted a sensational comeback, clawing their way back to win the third and fourth sets 26-24 and 25-17. Riding a wave of momentum and crowd support, GSU held firm in a nail-biting deciding set, eventually triumphing 15-12 to seal the championship and underscore their status as the premier men’s team in Kenyan volleyball.

“We never stopped believing,” said GSU assistant coach David Kirwa. “Even when we were down, the players showed extraordinary resilience and mental strength. This is what champions are made of.”

The tournament, organized by the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF), brought together the country’s top club sides and was seen as a landmark event aimed at raising the profile of the sport domestically. Officials praised the quality of play and turnout, and indicated plans to make the Kenya Cup an annual centerpiece of the volleyball calendar.

The victories for KCB and GSU not only add to their decorated legacies but also set the tone for the upcoming league season and regional competitions. For fans and players alike, the inaugural Kenya Cup delivered intensity, excellence, and the promise of a bright future for volleyball in Kenya.