Malkia Strikers head coach Geoffrey Omondi has set a target of winning at least one match at the FIVB Women’s World Championship, set for August 22 to September 7 in Thailand.
Kenya has been drawn in Pool G alongside Poland, Germany, and Vietnam.
“Our pool is tough, but with dedication and teamwork, surprises are possible. If we manage to secure friendlies in Serbia, it will give us a clearer picture of where we need to work harder,” he said.
He said he is impressed with the national women’s volleyball team's early progress as they intensify preparations for the global show.
With the final squad of 20 to be named tomorrow, Omondi exuded confidence that Malkia Strikers will be ready to deliver on the global stage.
He said the morale in camp is high, and the competition across positions is pushing everyone to raise their standards. The new-look squad comprises both seasoned and emerging players. “So far, so good, morale is high. Players are focused, and everyone is giving their best,” Omondi said.
“Each position has qualities we’re looking at, and we’re keen on selecting the final squad based on merit. The difference between seniors and juniors isn’t huge. Looking at the group randomly, you can’t easily tell who’s who.”
He added that the opposite position remains the most tightly contested and will require finer scrutiny before final decisions are made. Omondi, who is leading the national team for the first time, says he’s most impressed by the hunger and determination of the players.
“The urge and morale to do better, the team spirit in the new players, and their desire to represent the country stand out,” he said. “In a nutshell, people should expect a team with the best fighting spirit, one that will fight to secure maximum points as quickly as possible.”
He appealed to the government to allow full access to the Moi Stadium, Kasarani indoor gymnasium, to enhance preparations. Team captain Meldina Sande, who recently assumed leadership responsibilities, says the players are pushing themselves hard, with everyone eager to prove their worth to the technical bench.
“The spirit is high, and players are working hard. We have the best players from each club, and everyone is trying to impress,” Sande said.
“Malkia Strikers are determined and focused on the championship. Our target is one team, one mission, to compete and carry the flag high.”
Sande, who didn’t make the final cut to the Olympics, says she has embraced the leadership role, especially among younger players.
“Most of the girls at the Rwanda Police look up to me. I teach them patience and persistence. The young players here are ready to deliver, and coaches are getting a hard time when it comes to team selection because everyone is showing potential,” she noted.
She singled out defence on the net, service and backcourt reception as areas that need urgent attention. “Our attacks are solid, but reception, blocking, and general net defence need polishing,” Sande said
