Nairobi, Kenya | Jackline Barasa has written her name in Kenya’s volleyball history books. The former Malkia Strikers middle blocker is now the head coach of the Junior Malkia Strikers, and she has led the young national team to a place they have never been before the FIVB Women’s Under-21 World Championship.
Barasa’s love for volleyball began at St Teresa’s Kabula Secondary School in Bungoma County. She could not have imagined that one day she would lead Kenya to the world stage. Today, she is living proof that dreams do come true not just for herself but for the young players she now leads. It did not take long for her talent to be noticed. She went on to play for some of Kenya’s top clubs, including Telkom, Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
As a player, she wore the National jersey for the senior Malkia Strikers. She competed in big tournaments such as the African Games, African Club Championships, the Cup of Nations, and the FIVB World Championships. On the court, she was known for her powerful spikes and strong blocks.
When her playing career ended, Barasa decided to stay in the sport. She became a coach, starting with the Kenya Defence Forces women’s volleyball team. Her calm but firm style quickly earned her respect. She believes in discipline, teamwork, and hard work values she now teaches to her players.
In 2025, Barasa took charge of the Junior Malkia Strikers for the African Nations U20 Championship in Cameroon. It was not an easy road. The young players faced strong teams, but under her guidance, they played with confidence and fought for every point.
Her efforts paid off. The Junior Malkia Strikers won the championship and, for the first time in history, were crowned the champions of the continental title and qualified for the FIVB Women’s U21 World Championship. The victory brought smiles, tears, and celebrations both in Cameroon and back home in Kenya.
“Winning is about more than skill,” Barasa told reporters after the final. “It’s about believing in yourself and working together as a team.”
For fans who remember her days as a player, watching Barasa lead from the sidelines is a proud moment. She has gone from defending Kenya’s net to building Kenya’s future. Now, as the Junior Malkia Strikers prepare for the world stage, one thing is certain with Jackline Barasa in charge, they will not just be going to take part; they will be going to compete.
