© Mozzart Sport
© Mozzart Sport

Atuka rallying Malkia Strikers on as Olympic Games draw near

Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 27.06.24. | 10:01

Malkia are set to play Olympic silver medalists Brazil, two-time Olympic bronze medalists Poland, and two-time Games champions Japan

Malkia Strikers are in a pool of death at the upcoming Olympics in Paris but skipper Triza Atuka believes the squad will leave a mark on the international stage. 

With eight of the 13 players, including the captain, making their debut at the Games, Malkia Strikers have their work cut out as they chase not only a match win but a set at the global showpiece. 

The Japheth Munala-coached charges play Olympic silver medalists Brazil, two-time Olympic bronze medalists Poland, and two-time Games champions Japan. 

Kenya also faced Brazil and Japan in 2021 Games in Tokyo, Kenya coming close to bagging a set against the latter after going ahead 23-18, only to lose the set.

"We are motivated. We are heading to the Games as the African representatives and that is alot of expectation that has everyone keen to give their all. We have a mix of youth and experience and I am confident the final squad will be the best and we will represent the country and continent to the best of our ability," Atuka offered. 

Atuka, who missed the 2021 Covid-19-delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics, us one of the experienced heads that coach Munala will rely on despite being a debutant. 

Also expected to make the team is attacker Sharon Chepchumba, the hard-hitting Kenyan international having recovered from an injury that saw her terminate her stay at PAOK to rejoin KCB in the Kenyan league where her recovery journey has been ongoing.

Also in camp are the other four Olympians, other than Chepchumba, in Agripina Kundu, Lorine ChebetLeonida Kasaya and Edith Wisah and Munala is expected to have them in the final squad as their experience, in Tokyo and subsequent matches, goes a long way. 

Among the key debutant, away from the African best blocker Atuka, is Veronica Adhiambo, a Kenyan international who made a huge impact for Malkia during the qualification to the Games. 

"We are in a tough group that has the top ranked teams and we are headed there as underdogs. However, we will not be pushovers. We have both experience and a vibrancy from the youngsters which we will use to our advantage," Atuka promised. 



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Malkia Strikers volleyball teamParis 2024 Olympic GamesTrizah Atuka

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