This archive report was first published on 4 October 2019.
Published on October 4, 2019
Kenya Volleyball Federation boss Waithaka Kioni has made a U-turn on earlier plans to let Paul Bitok step down as the head coach of the Malkia Strikers. Bitok was initially asked to take charge of the team on an interim basis for the African Games and the World Cup in Japan after the departure of Italian tactician Shaileen Ramdoo.
However, Kioni has now revealed that Bitok will continue in the role, albeit with a more solid contract. This decision comes as the team prepares for the continental Olympic qualifiers in the next three months.
"We are actively thinking about it and we will not want to lose Bitok especially now that in the next three months we will have the continental Olympic qualifiers. We will discuss with him then find the best way forward," Kioni said.
Team captain Mercy Moim has also expressed her support for Bitok's continued tenure, stating that it would be destabilizing to change the team's technical bench just before the Olympic qualifiers.
"We have been together since the African Games, to the World Cup and it would not be good if we disrupt the rhythm. I would love to see that the technical bench remains the same and the players retained. If it is to add, maybe two or three new players," Moim said.
Bitok himself has expressed his willingness to remain as head coach, but only under a contract. He has also advised the Federation to find a permanent solution for the team's coaching position.
