Malkia Strikers land at at JKIA after their participation in the ongoing Paris Olympics Games in France. Photo credit. NOCK
Kenya Women’s Volleyball team, Malkia Strikers Tuesday night flew back into the country from Paris, France without the much-improved opposite hitter Pamela Adhiambo who linked up with her new club LP Viesti Akatemia, Finland.
Adhiambo who was locally attached to former National League champions, Kenya Pipeline, was impressive during the FIVB Challenger Cup in Philippines last month as well as the ongoing Olympic Games, thus getting the nod from the South West of Finland, Salo club that competes in Division Two Finnish Volleyball League.
Adhiambo who can play both as an outside and opposite hitter penned a one -year renewable contract with the club that boast of nine local titles.
Adhiambo move to Finnish brings to two Malkia strikers players who have professional stints outside the country.
Reliable outside hitter Veronica Adhiambo early this year renewed her contract with Greek second tier GS Panionios.
The former Sega Girls High School player will fly out of the country next month to link up with the club ahead of the new season.
Malkia Strikers participated in the ongoing Olympics Games but failed to proceed to the knock out stage after they lost all their three matches in pool “B”.
Malkia Strikers who were making their fourth appearance at the Summer Games,failed to go past group “B” falling at the hands of Brazil, Poland and Japan with the identical sets of 3-0.
The players will now join their respective clubs in preparation for the upcoming Kenya Volleyball Federation National League in October.
Malkia Strikers outside hitter Pamela Adhiambo in a past action. Photo: NOCK
Malkia Strikers captain Triza Atuka said they can only get better after their participation in the Games that saw eight players make their maiden appearance.
“This is a team that is relatively young and we hope to build on the exposure and experience picked at the Games.There were tremendous improvement from individual players that saw some get professional stints and also the team really gave their best especially the match against Japan but unfortunately our opponents reigned supreme,”said Atuka,who plays for Kenya Pipeline.
The reigning African and KVF best middle blocker said that competing at the Summer Games was fulfilling.
“Just like any other athlete,Olympics is the ultimate goal and I’m happy and humbled that I got to experience and be part of the Games.It goes without saying that I’m an Olympian.It was serene.I wish our compatriots who are still competing at the Games all the best,”added Atuka.
