Malkia Strikers' outside hitter Veronica Adhiambo believes they are steadily building confidence and competition as they intensify preparations for the upcoming FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Championship.
She said the goal is to have at least a win in their group during the event scheduled for when the tournament kicks off from August 22 to September 7 in Thailand.
Malkia have been pitted against defending champions Serbia, powerhouse Brazil and European giants Germany, setting the stage for a challenging campaign. “Training so far is not bad,” said Adhiambo during a session at Nyayo Stadium.
“We want to give the coach, Geoffrey Omondi, a hard time in selecting players. I help in reception, and I pray to God to help us win. We hope to beat even one team to add more points.”
The volleyball Queens are banking on better reception and service stability ahead of the global showpiece.
The national team is scheduled to enter residential camp on August 14 before flying out to Vietnam, where they’ll play friendly matches against local Vietnamese clubs until August 20. Negotiations are still ongoing for a potential fixture against Spain.
Kenya will use the Vietnam tour to gauge their readiness before naming the final 14-player squad for the World Championship. The provisional list is currently 20 players.
Meanwhile, the junior national women’s team is also sharpening up ahead of the FIVB U20 Women’s World Championship.
Left attacker Daisy Cheptum, who plays for Kenya Prisons and is a product of Soweto Academy, is confident the team has what it takes to go the distance. “I’m ready for the World Championships,” said Cheptum.
“Reception and service used to be a challenge, but not anymore. I’ve played for five years since Form Two. I joined out of self-interest, and now I look to go and play well. We’re targeting the cup.”
Joining the junior side is right attacker Marlin Terry, who also plays for the senior team and features prominently for KCB in the domestic league. “The players are friendly and training is going well,” said Terry.
Both teams are expected to intensify preparations in the coming weeks, as the country looks to make a strong showing on both the senior and junior world stages.
“ I’ve been active at KCB, and I’ve gotten immense support in training and beyond. I target a personal award at the World Championships. I believe we can make an impact if we put God first.”
The junior team boasts a blend of rising talent across all positions as they gear up for the upcoming FIVB U20 World Championships.
Marlene Terry and Eddah Jepkemei will lead the attack from the right as opposite hitters, while the left attack will feature Milkah Akinyi, Daisy Jepleting, Mary Nanjala, and Daisy Chepkirui.
In the middle, Benta Oluoch, Sharon Akinyi and Patricia Chemutai will be tasked with blocking and attacking duties. The team’s playmaking role will be shared between setters Sheila Wabuile and Esabella Nafula, with Sharon Jepkosgei anchoring the backcourt as the team’s libero.
