Malkia Strikers hopeful ahead of opening match

Malkia Strikers players during a friendly match against Serbia on September 18, 2022. [Courtesy]

It was all smiles yesterday as Malkia Strikers left Serbia for the world women's volleyball championships that starts on Friday in Netherlands.

"Actually there has been a lot of motivation at the camp as we take the last step to Netherlands," reigning Africa women club's champions KCB player Immaculate Nekesa said.

Another KCB player Edith Wisa also said the team was full of confidence as they head to Netherlands.

Team Captain Mercy Moim said the three months' preparations have given the players the best opportunities to train together ahead of a major global event.

"I believe in my players and God will be on our side as we head to Netherlands. We have got something to look forward to," Moim said.

Malkia Strikers coach Luizomar de Moura said it was time for the players to put what they have gained into results.

"Three months of preparation were not enough but I am impressed with the performance of the players but we still have a long journey ahead of us. It will be a tough challenge playing in the World Championships. We have to, however, acknowledge that the team has improved massively despite having some areas that still need to be worked on.

"The commitment from the players, technical bench and volleyball community in Kenya is encouraging as the team seeks to get better. I am expecting to see the team's fighting spirit at its highest level in Netherlands to achieve set goals and show a new Kenyan volleyball spirit," Moura said.

He said there is need to get the right investment for the youngsters as the country looks to become a force to reckon with.

"We can see from the friendly matches in Serbia that the team is showing different volleyball skills from what Kenyans are used to. We have a young team with some players who will be getting their first cap at the World Championship. We need to build on their experience at this level," the Brazilian coach said.