Malkia Strikers have been hit hard following the demise of the Kenya Volleyball Federation President Waithaka Kioni, according to the national women's volleyball, coach Paul Bitok

Bitok said the death of the KVF boss will complicate their plans for the Challenge Cup set for July in France. 

Kioni was pronounced dead on Sunday morning in Nairobi after a short illness.

The late was a towering enthusiast and leader in the world of sports, particularly in volleyball where he was a household name.

Bitok said the late Kioni was in talks with FIVB to support Malkia Strikers ahead of the Challenge Cup initiative. "It looks like we will have to start all over again after his departure," he noted. 

"I know for a fact his demise will bring total confusion," added Bitok, who spent a decade in Rwanda as the national coach. 

"We have the Challenge cup in July and Kioni was already in talks with FIVB towards assisting the national women's team. The talks were at an advanced stage and I know the girls must be broken," he revealed.

Bitok said the late Kioni had the network and influence to make things move despite the challenges they have had.

"He manouvered to have Mozzart on board for Malkia's preparations for the World Championships last year. Kioni took the game to another level. He was to oversee the transition of power and elections in KVF  but he has left us without passing the button."

KVF is supposed to hold elections this year after postponing it many times last year due to unavoidable circumstances.

Kioni is credited for starting the Kenya Pipeline volleyball team that has turned out to be a force to reckon with on the local scene after winning the league title last season albeit unbeaten.

Bitok said the late Kioni played a big role in his return as the Malkia Strikers coach in 2019.

"He managed us as players and gave me the chance to train the girls in a period of transition. He also entrusted me with s many responsibilities with FIVB as well as CAVB."

He added: "He pushed everyone; the players, referees and coaches to be the best version of themselves. He also contributed big time to the ongoing Paul Bitok tournament. It is bad that this had to happen at this point in time."

"Under his leadership, Malkia have played at the World Championships and Olympic Games and this is no mean feat," said Bitok.