Kenya’s National Women’s Volleyball team, the Malkia Strikers, have the dropped nine players from the provisional squad ahead of the upcoming FIVB World Championship.

The team, which has been diligently training at the Nyayo Stadium gymnasium, has now been trimmed from 29 to a more focused group of 20 players.

The rigorous selection process saw the following players dropped: Valerie Chepkoech, Vivian Vugutsa, Peninah Wafula, Sharon Sandui (due to injury), Valentine Jemutai, Miriam Musa, Deborah Sang, and Lydia Iswan. The technical bench, led by head coach Geoffrey Omondi, is clearly honing in on a formidable unit to represent Kenya on the global stage.

The ultimate squad of 14 players is set to be announced early next month. This final selection will precede the team’s departure to Vietnam, scheduled between August 15th and 20th, where they will engage in crucial friendly matches as part of their final preparations for the World Championship.

The FIVB World Championship is slated to run from August 22nd to September 7th in Thailand. Malkia Strikers find themselves in a challenging Pool G, where they will battle it out against volleyball powerhouses Germany, Poland, and Asian contenders Vietnam.

The provisional squad that remains in contention for a spot in the final 14 boasts a blend of experience and emerging talent:

Setters: Emmaulate Nekesa, Fridah Boke, Marclean Okoko

Opposite Hitters: Mercy Iminza, Malyne Terry, Loice Simiyu, Pamela Adhiambo

Middle Blockers: Belinda Barasa, Elizabeth Sokoiyo, Gladys Ekaru, Lorine Chebet, Pauline Chemtai

Outside Hitters: Daisy Leting, Veronica Adhiambo, Juliana Namutira, Sarah Namisi, Meldina Sande (captain)

Liberos: Celestine Nafula, Sharlene Maywa, Dolphine Misoki

The technical team guiding the Malkia Strikers includes Head Coach Geoffrey Omondi, with Esther Jepkosgei and David Muthui serving as assistant coaches.

Azenga Mavisi is the team’s trainer, and Sarah Karongo is the physiotherapist.

With the World Championship drawing closer, the trimmed squad will intensify their training, aiming to showcase Kenya’s prowess in international volleyball and make a significant impact in Thailand.

The nation eagerly awaits the final squad announcement and will be rallying behind the Malkia Strikers as they embark on this challenging but exciting journey.

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