Kenya Volleyball Federation champions Kenya Pipeline head coach Paul Gitau is determined to retain the national title when the end-of-season playoffs serve off at Kasarani gymnasium on Monday.

Gitau said they are keen on displaying excellence in all departments at the October 2-4 tournament.

“Every defending champion wants to ensure they keep the title. We are eager to reatin our and will there focus on all departments. The girls will ensure they create many chances, capitalise on them, and have a solid defence,” said Gitau

Pipeline reclaimed the title they last won in 2017 after beating KCB 3-1 last season.

Despite going down 25-18 in the first set, the Oil Merchants recovered from the early setback to win the next consecutive sets 25-22, 25-19 and 26-24.

The six-time African champions ended that season unbeaten.

They finished the regular season with 15 points and dropped only a set during the playoffs.

Gitau emphasised his charges' unwavering mindset, positive attitude, and hunger to secure back-to-back titles.

“The competition is high and we will be looking at every team with precision. The girls are coming to Kasarani with the right mentality and hunger for another title. We will not surrender our title easily,” the tactician concluded.

Pipeline begin their campaign with a clash against DCI on Monday, lock horns with Kenya Prisons on Tuesday and finish with a match against perennial rivals KCB on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, KCB, last season's runners-up, are keen to clinch the trophy after a 15-year drought.

The bankers have been training at Kasarani Indoor Arena since Monday.

Coach Japheth Munala expressed confidence, stating: "I am ready for the playoffs. We have had enough time to prepare for the tournament. We started training here on Monday and I cannot wait to see the girls go out there on the big stage to clinch this trophy that has eluded us for the past 15 years."

The bankers battle Kenya Prisons on Monday, face DCI on Tuesday as Pipeline lie in wait on Wednesday.