Kasaya: New role a blessing in disguise

She may not have gotten many minutes on the court for Malkia Strikers at the ongoing CAVB African Nations Championship, but for Kenya Pipeline's Leonida Kasaya, her new role with the team could not have come at a better time. 

Anyone in her position would be focusing on the negatives, missing out on playing time after being changed from her traditional left attacking position to the libero duties. 

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The move was necessitated by the revelation that, unlike in the FIVB competitions where it is possible to change the player taking up the libero duties for each match, the team would need to have two designated liberos as has been the norm. 

Kasaya took the decision in stride and is making the best of it while remaining pragmatic as she shadows Kenya's number one libero, Agripina Kundu. 

"I took the move positively as the position demands good reception and covering the back court, something I am used to as a left attacker. 

I honestly feel that this is a great opportunity to perfect my reception at a time when I am just getting back from motherhood and I was not at my best.  

The training is helping me get my groove back. There is a lot of movement in that position and what better way to lighten my body than with such training. 

I admit it is a new challenge but it is also a blessing. I am happy where I am," Kasaya offered. 

Asked whether it bothers her on the little time she is getting on the court and her new role denying the team her serving prowess that has time and again pulled Kenya out of deep trenches in previous competitions, Kasaya remained gracious in her reply. 

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"I am here to offer back-up for Kundu in this new role. I cannot compete with her since this is a very new position and she has perfected her art as a libero. When called upon, I will always give my best in whatever capacity as was evident in the match against Burkina Faso," she opined. 

Kasaya, who made her debut for Malkia Strikers in 2014 during the FIVB grand prix, has been lauded for having an eye for detail while on the bench, a strength she often exploits when brought in for any match. 

Meanwhile, Kundu says when Kenya found themselves in this situation, needing another designated libero, she was satisfied with the choice of Kasaya. 

"Her experience was a big part of the reasons she was chosen for this position. She is the perfect choice as her reception is good. I known if anything happens on the court, she has my back and that gives me confidence," Kundu offered. 

The team is looking for back-to-back qualification to the Olympic Games while also chasing the African title they have missed out on since 2015 in Nairobi, hosts Cameroon having won the last three.