NAIROBI, Kenya, October 27- The national women’s volleyball team left for Egypt on Thursday to continue their build-up for the forthcoming FIVB World Cup in Japan.
Head coach, Paul Bitok said the pooling at this year’s event had increased the African champion’s chances of recording a first ever victory in the tournament.
Bitok remained optimistic predicting that his side that is made up of experienced campaigners and youth will reverse Kenya’s history at the competition with the country yet to record victory at the global showpiece
“This year the national team will play all teams both strong and weak teams and I believe we are going to win two matches for that is our objective,” said Bitok.
He said that they have been training for two weeks and all the players are in good shape for the upcoming challenge.
The team will play five build-up matches in Egypt before flying to Japan where they will take on Germany in their opener in Nagoya on November 4.
“I have good confidence with the team so I urge Kenyans to give us motivation and support so as for the first time we make impact,” he added.
He also said that the weather in Egypt was similar to that of Japan and would therefore; provide the ideal wrap to their build-up.
“It is winter time in Egypt and it’s not as hot and it will be the same in Japan. It will not affect because volleyball is an indoor game and there enough facilities,” he added.
Backsides Agala, the team captain hailed her coach for giving youngsters an opportunity to travel with the squad.
“Am proud for the involvement of young players in our World Cup squad since the top teams in the have young players.”
Kenya Pipeline duo Elizabeth Wangechi and Ruth Chepng’etich are the youngsters included in the team with the head coach who was recalled from his duties in Rwanda to head the team explaining their inclusion.
“It’s very important to have junior players to build for the future for we have not have reached the level that is needed on the international scene but there so many competitions ahead and we will need them,” Bitok stressed.
The team is planning to have a friendly match in Japan before their opener against Germany in Nagoya.
“Our main plan with the Kenya Volleyball Federation is to be among the top in the world and in the near future and this squad should set us on our way,” the head coach who will be assisted by David Lungaho, who led the country to bronze at the Maputo All Africa Games noted.
Besides Germany, Kenya are pooled with powerhouses Brazil, Serbia, Korea and United States for the first round.
– By Gloria Kendi
SQUAD
1. Everline Makuto Prisons
2. Esther Wangeci Pipeline
3. Diana Khisa Prisons
4. Ruth Chepngetich Pipeline
5. Janet Wanja Pipeline
6. Roseline Adhiambo Pipeline
7. Noel Murambi KCB
8. Lydia Maiyo Prisons
9. Mercy Moim Prisons
10. Bracksides Agala Prisons
11. Judy Tarus Prisons
12. Florence Bosire Prisons
