NOC-K flags off Malkia Strikers as they leave for Paris for volleyball success

The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) alongside the Sports Principal Secretary Mr. Peter K. Tum, on Saturday flagged off Malkia Strikers, Kenya’s national female volleyball team at Nyayo Stadium as they embark on their road to Paris. This follows NOC-K’s Commitment to pledging its support through the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) to assist the team in its quest for success.

Present was NOC-K 1st Deputy President Shadrack Maluki and Treasurer Eliud A. Kariuki, the sports registrar Rose Wasike, ADAK CEO Sarah Shibutse, and KVF officials.

Speaking on behalf of President Dr. Tergat said it was a special day as the Committee witnessed the team’s departure for some high-level tournaments abroad.

“Your journey to this moment I am aware has been filled with challenges, especially travel logistics but all is well that ends well. I say this because you now need to put all the troubles behind you and go and do what you have always done best- play and win big. Ahead of you are very key points to fight for and earn at the various stops in Africa and Europe such as the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon and Challenger Cup in France.

Maluki expressed his confidence in the team owing to the fact, they need to secure and retain this enviable position that comes with amassing sufficient points, to give the team and the country a continental slot to the Olympic Games next year.

“This, to me and the rest of us, would be a fitting tribute and legacy for former President Kioni.”

NOC-K has steadfastly supported the Malkia Strikers, recognizing their potential and dedication. In November of last year, NOC-K granted the team Ksh. 5.4 million to boost their efforts in qualifying and returning to the Olympic stage with even greater strength and prowess. This two-year, $45,000 Olympic solidarity grant will continue until the team secures qualification for the games, with additional support expected should they achieve this milestone.

Acting President Charles Nyaberi expressed heartfelt gratitude to NOC-K for their unwavering support over the years. He acknowledged and thanked the government and partners, such as Mozzart Bet, for their generous contributions.

 The PS emphasized the critical importance of supporting team sports on the road to Paris,

 “Last week we had a retreat with SAGAs and all stakeholders to and I can assure the ladies that we are in a new era with our able CS, we shall fully support you as you prepare for the Olympics. I have brought along Faith Kipyegon to show you that everything is possible. You are our greatest export.”

1500m and 5000m World record holder Faith Kipyegon also encouraged the girls.

“It almost feels like it is our time ladies, from golf, hockey, basketball, volleyball, Rugby..we are at the top. Let us shine and make our country proud. I hope we get to Paris, together.”

those teams as well. Currently, the team sports benefiting from scholarships are the 3×3 Basketball teams (both men and women) and the Malkia Strikers.

To kick start their journey, the Malkia Strikers will travel to Morocco, specifically Rabat, for a training camp that is fully supported by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and the Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB). This is a momentous step, as Morocco boasts exceptional rankings and top-notch infrastructure. During their stay, the team will receive training under the guidance of six Brazilian coaches, who have been instrumental in their development since the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the World Championship. Two Kenyan coaches will also provide their expertise to complement the team’s coaching staff, with Coach Bitok leading as the female national head coach.

Following their training in Morocco, the Malkia Strikers will proceed to France for the highly anticipated 2023 FIVB Challenger Cup. This prestigious tournament will feature the world’s leading volleyball teams, making it a paramount event for the Malkia Strikers, who currently hold the top rank in Africa. Moreover, this presents a remarkable opportunity for the team to visit the city of Miramas, which has partnered with NOC-K to provide invaluable support in terms of infrastructure, technical guidance, and tactical expertise. This collaboration aims to bolster the team’s preparation as they head towards Paris.

On August 4th, after their stay in Miramas, the team will fly directly to Yaoundé, Cameroon, to compete in the Africa Cup of Nations. This pivotal competition, taking place from August 5th to 14th, will determine the team’s qualification for the World Championship. The points garnered from the Morocco and Cameroon competitions will be decisive in identifying Africa’s top team and securing their spot in Paris 2024.

The final team departing today will consist of four players; Lorine Chebet, Trizah Atuka, Wavinya Yvonne, and Gladys Ekaru accompanied by the chaperone, Lydia Mbotela, Physiotherapist Sarah Karungu, and Head Coach Bitok.

MG Team

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