Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Volleyball team is aiming to salvage pride with a strong push for a fifth-place finish in the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Men’s League following their disappointing exit in the quarterfinals of the season’s playoffs. Despite falling short of a top-four finish, the team remains determined to close the season on a high note during the classification matches scheduled for this weekend.
Head coach Elisha Aliwa, who also serves as assistant coach for the Wafalme Stars national team, emphasized the importance of securing the best possible ranking. According to him, finishing fifth would not only restore some confidence within the squad but also influence their positioning and draw in the next season’s fixtures. With this goal in mind, the team is intensifying preparations, aiming to improve on the shortcomings that contributed to their recent playoff disappointment.
The KDF team was knocked out in a thrilling quarterfinal clash by Equity Bank, in what proved to be one of the most dramatic series of the playoffs. The encounter extended to a deciding fifth match, where Equity completed a remarkable comeback, winning 3-2. The series saw both sides push each other to the limits, with Equity overturning an initial loss to force the decisive final game. This narrow defeat was a bitter pill for KDF, who had initially looked to be in control after winning the first match.
Reflecting on the series, coach Aliwa acknowledged that weaknesses in their backcourt defense and service game were critical factors in their loss. He was candid about the need to address these areas to have any chance of success in the classification rounds. The focus now is on tightening defensive structures and sharpening service accuracy to avoid repeating the costly errors witnessed during the quarterfinals.
The coach also praised the rising competitiveness of the KVF Men’s League, noting how it has become increasingly difficult to secure victories. According to Aliwa, every match demands an exceptional performance from players, as the margins for error have drastically narrowed. This, he says, underscores the growing standard of volleyball in the country and the need for continuous improvement.
KDF’s immediate challenge is a clash against Nairobi Prisons this Saturday at Nyayo Gymnasium. The stakes are high as the winner of this match will advance to the fifth-place playoff, where they will face either Kenya Forest Services (KFS) or Trail Blazer, depending on the outcome of their respective fixture. This weekend’s matches represent an opportunity for KDF to restore some pride and finish the season with a respectable standing.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on the semifinals, the players remain motivated. The coaching staff has been working hard to instill a fighting spirit and tactical discipline that could make the difference in these classification matches. The goal is clear: to turn the page on the playoff heartbreak and finish as strongly as possible.
The KDF volleyball team’s season has been a rollercoaster, with flashes of promise but ultimately falling short of the ultimate target. Their journey highlights the challenges and unpredictability of competitive sports, especially in a league that is increasingly balanced and competitive. The team’s response to adversity will be critical in defining how this campaign is remembered.
In summary, KDF’s focus now shifts to the classification matches where a fifth-place finish is both a realistic and worthy objective. Through improved defense, sharper services, and renewed determination, the Soldiers aim to end the season on a positive note. Fans and stakeholders will be watching closely as they take on Nairobi Prisons this weekend, hopeful that the team can bounce back from their playoff heartbreak with resilience and skill.
