National volleyball: Malkia Strikers head to Japan in high spirits
National volleyball women’s side Malkia Strikers will head to the September 14-29 World Cup in Japan high on confidence.
Head coach Paul Bitok, who was on Monday confirmed as the team’s permanent tactician, believes the team will have a point to prove at the World Cup.
Bitok guided the team to successfully defend their African Games title after beating Cameroon 3-1 on Saturday in Rabat, Morocco, and will resume training this weekend for the global assignment.
“We have agreed that the players take a little break. We are going with the players we had in Morocco, since we don’t have time to try new systems. Eventually, my desire is to bring in as many young players as possible,” said Bitok, who will have centre Lorine Chebet and libero Elizabeth Wanyama back into the team.
“After showing a lot of hunger and desire in Rabat, there is need to take the same momentum to the World Cup by trying to play better in all departments,” added the tactician.
After the World Cup, Kenya will shift their attention to the Olympics qualifiers, seeking a return to the games since 2004.
“I believe we will achieve a lot. What we need is time to adequately advocate our philosophy. Blending upcoming players with experiences ones will be key,” said Bitok.
