Chumba raring to go as Malkia Strikers finalise World Championship preps

Nine-time African volleyball champions, Malkia Strikers are in Belgrade, Serbia where they hold their final training camp ahead of the 2022 Women's World Championships set for Netherlands and Poland from 23 November. 

The team flew to Belgrade from Brazil after over 80 days in the South American nation known for its prowess in volleyball where they held an FIVB-sponsored training camp. 

The Luizomar de Moura-coached side is chasing at the very least, a second win at the World Championships since their historic triumph against Kazakhstan in straight sets during the 2018 edition held in Japan.

One of the youngsters introduced to the World in the 2018 championship by coach Paul Bitok, who is serving as Moura's assistant, and has grown to a household name in Africa, Sharon Chepchumba makes her second appearance in Netherlands. 

The 23-year old says alot is expected of her and her teammates but in a quick rejoinder assured that she is ready to deliver. 

"I appreciate everyone that has supported this journey from our sponsors to our hosts in Brazil, Osasco Club. 

At the beginning of camp in Brazil, our level was low but we have improved massively and are ready for battle. We are in Serbia for the final preparation and I believe this comes at an opportune time to help us maintain our tp form. 

We played ten friendly matches in Brazil and this final action here is equally important as it keep us in that competition mood. Our performance here will also be a big indication of what to expect in Netherlands," offered Chumba.

At the age of 19 and having barely played international volleyball, the KCB attacker, then playing for Kenya Pipeline featured at the 2018 championship held in Japan where she emerged as Kenya's top point scorer and also topped the African teams' charts. 

"I have seen an improvement both physically and in my ball work since 2018. The coaching staff has given us everything and now it is up to us to deliver. I will do better than I did in 2018," Chumba promised. 

Wavinya named libero as Malkia Strikers' final 14 is released

Malkia Strikers are drawn in a tough-looking pool A in a draw which split the 24 participating teams into four first round pools of six teams. Malkia Strikers are pitted against Cameroon, hosts Netherlands, European champions Italy, Puerto Rico and Belgium. 

The team begins its campaign against the home team, Netherlands, in a championship opener that will set the pace for the East Africans. 

Final team 

LEFT 

1.Mercy Moim 

2. Noel Murambi 

3. Meldinah Sande 

4. Veronica Adhiambo 

MIDDLE BLOCKERS 

1. Edith Mukuvilani 

2. Gladies Ekaru 

3. Lorine Chebet 

4. Belinda Barasa 

SETTERS

1. Emmaculate Nekesa

2. Veronica Kilabat

OPPOSITE ATTACKERS

 1. Sharon Chumba

 2. Everline Makuto 

LIBERO

1. Agripina Kundu 

2. Yvonne Wavinya