Eyeing quick return: Knee injury locks out Kenyan captain from the French league

National volleyball team captain Bracksides Agala hopes to make a swift return from injury and reclaim her place in the French Division Two side Chamalières.

The 30-year-old former Kenya Prisons middle-blocker sustained a knee injury after featuring in four matches for the French side upon her move in early September.

Agala has not played for the second placed Chamalières for over a month now, but she’s optimistic to get out of the club’s medical rooms and help her colleagues in the championship.

“It’s sad to be sidelined with an injury on your professional stint. It’s been really hard for me, but I am on the recovery path.

“The physiotherapist has given me a clean bill of health and will be resuming training before the end of this month. Of course it will not be easy to go directly into the starting team, but that’s my target,” said Khadambi.

Although Khadambi has had a difficult life at the club, she says she is enjoying her stay in France.

“Apart from the language difficulties everything else is fine. I am well right now and I can’t complain much.

“The environment is conducive and it didn’t take me long to settle down. But I literally miss everything about home - my family, friends and matoke,” she said.

Asked about her experience in French Division Two league and the comparison between the Kenyan and French volleyball, the well-travelled Agala said: “It’s a good experience. We’ve so many internationals in my team and play against tough teams with quality players from all over the world.

“They are nearly the same. The only difference is that France has so many teams and they emphasise their training on the basics - service and reception.”

Kenya national team setter Jane Wacu, who joined the club alongside Agala in September, is eager to welcome her compatriot back into the fold.

“I really miss playing with Agala. She’s a dependable player and I can’t wait to see her back into action. I wish her quick recovery,” said Wacu.

Previously, Agala plied her trade in Ankara, Turkey with Pursklar Belediyesi. She also played in Japan with Hitachi Sawa. She has been the captain of Kenya team and has led Kenya Prisons to three FIVB Club Championships.

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