Namutira relishing Malkia Strikers debut ahead of busy calendar

Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) outside hitter Juliana Namutira, nicknamed ‘Bulldozer’ for her hard hits is hoping to make the final Malkia Strikers squad for upcoming assignments.

Barely off her teenage hood, Namutira who crossed over to the bankers from Ulinzi was named in Malkia Strikers’ provisional squad following her spectacular performance for the Japheth Munala-led side in the Africa Club Championships.

KVF name provisional Malkia Strikers squad for upcoming international competitions

“I am just happy to have the selectors give me this opportunity. It was very unexpected since I have just been on the scene for a short while and just made my international debut during the African championships last month.

When the opportunity presented itself to perform on the big stage, the only thing on my mind was ‘if others have done it, why not me?’ and I believe that attitude has everything to do with my performance in Tunisia,” she offered.

Coach Paul Bitok who will be in charge of the national team alongside FIVB seconded tactician Luizomar De Moura had, in a previous interview, tipped the Soweto Academy alumnus to be the next big thing in women’s volleyball, likening her to the legendary Doris Wefwafwa.

“Just like Wefwafwa she does not say much on the court but her spiking introduces her without uttering a word. She has powerfully unmatched attacks and keeps her individual errors on the minimal which makes her a good and reliable player despite her young age," offered Bitok who doubles up as KCB’s technical director, adding that she is a game changer.

The national team is expected to head to Morocco on 10 June for a training camp ahead of the FIVB Challenger Cup in Laval, France where the team will battle hosts France, Colombia and Mexico for a chance to gain promotion to the prestigious Volleyball Nations League (VNL). The team is also set to feature in the Africa Nations Championship set for August.

“If I am lucky enough to make the final squad, I will strive to help the team win both competitions,” Namutira added.

The youngster has received praise from the Brazilian coach Moura, having watched her in action during the club championships in Tunisia.

"I was impressed by the talent on display in Tunisia. She was peerless and I am glad she will be part Malkia project for the upcoming competitions," Moura said while naming Trizah Atuka and Esther Mutinda as the others who will be instrumental for the team.