Bitok, Munala back setter Mutinda to shine at KCB

The setter, who has established herself as the heir to former Malkia Strikers stars Jane Wacu and Janet Wanja, crossed over from rivals Kenya Pipeline as the Bankers seek to build a formidable force next season.

Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) National Women’s League delayed playoffs and Women's African Clubs Championship are line-up for early next year and Munala who steered the team to the African glory this year after a two-decade drought has heaped Mutinda as one of the most hottest volleyball prospect in the country.

“Mutinda is among the best setters in the country and she will without doubt improve our fortunes. We’ve signed her early so that she can gel with the squad before the Africa championship because she has been away on maternity leave,” Munala told Citizen Digital.

Munala said the former Kwanthanze Secondary School player can also play as Outside Hitter even as the club struggle to fill the void left by ever-green Sharon Chepchumba who signed with Aris Hessaloniki volleyball club, a Greece third tier side in October.

“She is a utility player and we can also use her as an attacker as we try to groom who will wear Chumba’s big shoes. Chumba was very lethal in Tunisia during the African Championship and we will miss her services but we must move on,” Munala added.

KCB’s technical director Paul Bitok, who handed Mutinda her first call up to the national team in 2021 during the African Nations Championships in Rwanda, said she was worth her weight in gold.

“I’m happy that one of the best setters has joined the winning team. Before she went for the break, she did a great job in Rwanda where it was her first time to turn up for the Malkia Strikers on such a big stage. We’ve signed her specifically for the African championship because we’re not taking any chances as the defending champions,” said Bitok, who is also the Malkia Strikers head coach.

Mutinda will compete for the setter position against Emmaculate Nekesa who has cemented her place in the club and Faith Imodia who switched to KCB in 2021.