The sports fraternity has once again united in mourning volleyball icon Janet Wanja, one of the most iconic sports personalities, who passed on Boxing Day in 2024 after a long battle with gallbladder cancer.

The volleyball scene where Wanja left an indelible mark is among those who paid tribute to the late star.

Volleyball and sports administrator Charles Nyaberi was among those who paid tribute to the volleyball queen on the first anniversary of her demise.

lingering memories

”One whole year on… Your memory lingers on! Lie easy, champ. Janet Wanja

Hapo ulipo, sote twaja,”

“You shone as a volleyball star.

Every Volley Set made opponents stir

Kenya Volleyball Federation still mourns you

Kenya, Africa, World Volleyball misses you

Lie Easy till we meet again someday

Till we link up on Judgement Day

Shine on!

Right on!,” Nyaberi message read.

Wanja’s national team, which he featured as a former Olympian, also recalled the nostalgic moments with the fallen sports heroine.

The club hailed her leadership, friendly disposition, and influence beyond the sports.

“In Memory of Janet Wanja—1 Year On. One year without Janet Wanja, yet her spirit, passion, and love for volleyball remain alive in all of us. A mentor, a leader, and a friend to many, she changed lives and inspired generations.,”

“Wanja may no longer be with us, but her legacy will continue to guide and motivate every player who steps onto the court,” the Malkia Striker’s tribute read.

Legacy lives on

Other touching tributes for the player included those from her buddies and long acquaintances, such as Loice Simyu, the sensational Pipeline Volleyball club’s opposite hitter and reigning female MVP of the 2025 Kipchumba Karori tournament

” One year later, we remember you with love, gratitude, and quiet strength. Your light lives on in our hearts. Forever remembered, Janet Wanja,” Simiyu said.

Born in Kahawa Wendani on 24th February in 1984, Wanja was raised in a sports family—which also included Kevin Kimani, former AFC Leopards star—as the third daughter of John Mungai and Serah Mungai.

 She grew up in Kahawa Garrison and later attended Kenyatta University Primary School and Sacred Heart Mukumu Girls’ High School, where her volleyball journey began in school.

Her professional career spanned over a decade, where she featured as a prominent setter for the Malkia Strikers.

During that time, she featured in the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece, won five African Nations Championship titles, and participated in global tournaments like the FIVB World Championships and World Grand Prix.