National senior women’s volleyball team head coach upbeat as Malkia Strikers head to Japan

David Lung’aho, the national senior women’s volleyball team head coach, has expressed confidence ahead of the FIVB World Cup in Japan from August 22 to September 6.

Speaking at a press briefing after training at the Kasarani Indoor Arena yesterday, Lung’aho said the Malkia Strikers had prepared well for the last two weeks.

He added that the team leaves for Tokyo, Japan, for a one-week training tomorrow.

“There is much improvement in the team and we are motivated and hopeful for good results. The last time we were in the World Cup, we were mere participants but now it is different because we are going there as competitors,” said the tactician.

Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Chairman Waithaka Kioni remained optimistic of a good performance, saying they are still celebrating the team’s success at the FIVB Grand Prix.

“Preparing for one week in Japan will help the team acclimatise before the start of the main event. I remain hopeful and confident that the team will surpass the performance of previous editions,” said the official.

Kenya has been pooled alongside the hosts, Dominican Republic, Russia, Argentina and Cuba.

Malkia Strikers will open their World Cup campaign against Cuba in the first round matches on August 22 before they take on the Dominican Republic, Russia, Japan and Argentina in pool A. In the second round, Kenya will face Korea, Serbia and Peru.

Lung’aho has included Kenya Commercial Bank setter Farida Efumbi and Bilha Jepchirchir in his squad.

At the same time, KVF will host a fundraising dinner at the Intercontinental Hotel, Nairobi, on Thursday to reward the Malkia Strikers for their exemplary performance.

“The Deputy President William Ruto has agreed to be our guest of honour and I am encouraging other well-wishers to join us as we celebrate the team for the work they did,” said Mr Kioni.