Wanjala optimistic of securing World Championships slot in qualifier

Kenya's women's beach volleyball head coach, Salome Wanjala, is eyeing maximum points in Morocco as the team gears up for the Continental Beach Volleyball Championship set for June 23 to 30.

The squad begins non-residential training today at Strathmore University ahead of the competition. 

“We are set to begin our training tomorrow (Wednesday) at Strathmore,  where we look to test our players' fitness level. I know the girls have been active in indoor volleyball, as the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Women’s League season has just concluded,” Wanjala said.

The team was unveiled after the National League final at Moi Stadium, Kasarani. 

The event, which doubles up as a qualifier for the 2025 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championship, will take place in Royal Morocco, with the Kenyan side set to proceed to Mombasa next week for intensive preparations.

“We are preparing for the World Championships qualifiers and we are optimistic to bag maximum points,” said Wanjala.  

The tactician also heads the Nairobi Prisons Women’s volleyball team.

Named in the provisional squad are Gaudencia Makokha from Kenya Pipeline (KPC), Veronicah Adhiambo (KPC), Sharon Arusei (KPC), Mercy Iminza of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Phosca Kasisi (KCB) and Sharleen Maywa (KCB).

Veteran Gaudencia Makokha, partnering with newcomer Phoscah Kasisi, secured her third gold medal on the National Tour. 

The duo proved unstoppable, winning all five of their matches in dominant fashion, without dropping a single set in Diani last month. 

Other members of the delegation are Simon Kibe (physiotherapist), Robinson Okoth (team manager) and John Ogara (head of delegation). 

"The team is expected to enter full residential camp after the Strathmore and Mombasa stints as they chase a coveted place at the global showpiece," the coach concluded. 

Elsewhere, the national men’s provisional team comprises Jairus Kipkosgey /Elphas Makuto (Kenya Prisons),  Brian Melly (GSU)/ Donald Mchete (KPA) and   Wilson Cheruyot (GSU) /Joseph Muliro (KDF).

The team will train under coach Sammy Mulinge. Other officials are— Simon Kibe (physiotherapist), Robinson Okoth (team manager) and John Ogara  (head of delegation). 

The men’s continental show will take place from June 23 to 30 in Tetouan and Martil, Morocco.