Kenya confident ahead of Kampala tourney

Kenya players celebrates winning the 2013 Women African Nations Volleyball Championship at Kasarani Gymnisium , Nairobi on Thursday 19/09/13.PHOTO:BONIFACE OKENDO

The national women’s volleyball team are beaming with confidence ahead of the All Africa Games Qualifiers that serves off in Kampala, Uganda, today.

Malkia Strikers, who left by road to Kampala on Sunday morning, are likely to kick off their campaign against Ethiopia today. However, the official fixtures are expected to be released this morning.

Despite the withdrawal of Rwanda, Kenya will also battle hosts Uganda, Tanzania, Egypt and Burundi in the week-long tournament (April 20-26) for one of the two slots at the All Africa Games finals.

In an interview with FeverPitch before departure, team manager/head of delegation Martin Makokha exuded confidence in the team, saying they have what it takes to lift their fourth title (1991, 195 and 1999) and qualify for the continental show-piece.

“The girls are in very high spirits. They are on a mission which has to be accomplished - Coming out tops,” said Makokha.

“I’m reliably informed we play Ethiopia in our first match. Whatever the case, it’s all systems go for our girls,” he added.

Head coach David Lung’aho said: “We have prepared very well and I am confident the girls will make us proud. This team has what it takes to qualify as winners not only in this tournament, but also in upcoming assignments.” 

After the Kampala assignment, the team will shift their focus to the Africa Cup of Nations to be hosted in Nairobi between June 8 and 20 and the World Grand Prix first leg in Mexico in July.