Kenya seeks Africa glory

Malkia Strikers middle blocker Edith Wisa reacts during the match against the Dominican Republic. [Courtesy]

National women’s volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, will gun for nothing short of glory as the 2019 African Nations Cup serves off in, Cairo Egypt tomorrow.

The nine-time continental champions, who have been training at Kasarani Gymnasium for almost two months under the tutelage of Italian FIVB instructor Shailen Ramdoo, left the country yesterday morning oozing confidence.

The winners and first runners up of the sixteen-nation tournament will represent Africa in next year’s World Championship in Japan.

But even as they aim to reclaim the title they lost to their new-found rivals Cameroon in Yaoundé, two years ago, national team coach Japheth Munala is wary of the threat posed by hosts Egypt.

“This has been one of the best preparations ever and everybody is in good shape. The girls have trained together for over five weeks before shifting to the residential training,” said Munala.

“We are fit and the players are in a good mood, ready to bring back the title. Of course, Cameroon have vastly improved and are going there as the defending champions, but I think as hosts, Egypt will be our biggest threat.

“With such a good mood in the team, everybody is determined to reclaim the title as we prepare for the busy schedule ahead of us. Looking at the travelling squad, you can tell what our mission is.”

He defended the surprise inclusion of fast-rising Kenya Pipeline middle-blocker Gladys Ekaru in the 14-member travelling squad.

“Ekaru might be young but from what we have seen in training so far, she has what it takes to play for the senior team. Apart from her height, she has proved in training and everyone is impressed with her blocks and services. I’m confident she will deliver in Egypt,” said Munala.

Asked about the impact of Italian coach Shailen Ramdoo both in camp and training, Munala said: “One thing for sure he (Ramdoo) has been of great help to the team."