Malkia Strikers coach Paul Bitok wants the players to take just one-week break before hitting camp again in preparations for the African Volleyball Nation's Championships slated for September in Rwanda.
Malkia, who rounded off their Olympic matches on Monday with a 3-0 loss to Brazil, are expected in the country on Thursday and have more work to do if they are to reclaim the gold medal they last won in 2015 in Nairobi.
Even though the final decision on when the players will hit camp depends on the Kenya Volleyball Federation, a seven-day break is ideal for the players, according to Bitok.
"About participating or starting training depends with KVF but for me, I'll give out one-week off because there's a lot to be done going by the performance."
Bitok, the former Rwanda national team tactician, said two more players will be needed for the continental tournament as opposed to the Olympics — where only 12 were eligible.
Bitok also encouraged the youngsters in the team to fight for their future by embracing competition for places.
"It is time for the youngsters to fight for positions. I will only tinker with the current squad depending on training and the new members joining the team. So it's about competition," said Bitok
Malkia did not win a set in Tokyo but the coach hinted there's progress going by the targets they had set before the championship.
"We have concluded our participation in Tokyo and the girls gave their best. We didn't win but progress is good considering our set goals by KVF, FIVB, NOCK and both the Brazilian and local coaches," said Bitok.
"I believe soon we shall break through. We are determined to do our best in the next competition as we plan and strategise for 2022-2024."
