Malkia Strikers during the October 19, 2017 luncheon. [Photo/Twitter]
At a luncheon held in a Nairobi hotel on Thursday, the Kenya Volleyball Federation president, Waithaka Kioni was excited to narrate the accomplishments the Kenya Women’s Volleyball Team, Malkia Strikers have had.
In his words, he said, "The team returned home on Tuesday 17th October 2017 after participation in the 2017 CAVB Women's African Volleyball Championship held in Yaoundé Cameroon from 07-17 October where they finished Runners-up after losing to Cameroon in the final.
Since winning the bi-annual Competition in their debut season in 1991, the Malkia Strikers have been Champions a further 8-times and second in 2003 and 2017.
In the Individual Awards category, Mercy Moim, the Captain, was the “Best Attacker” while Edith Wisah won the “Best Blocker” award.
The event doubled up as the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Women's World Championship qualifier, and the Malkia Strikers qualified alongside Cameroon as the top two Teams. The event takes place from 29 September to 20 October 2018 in various cities in Japan. Kenya has previously qualified on five FIVB World Championships: - 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010
Kenya Volleyball Federation wishes to thank the Team and officials for their exemplary performance and for flying Kenya’s flag high.
"SportPesa are happy to be here today to appreciate the Volleyball Team that has done Kenya proud by qualifying for the World Championships in Japan next year, said Joyce Kibe SportPesa's Global Chief Marketing Officer.
She further added, "You are proof that when we believe in ourselves as a nation, as a people, as a team, we can reach far; challenges notwithstanding. Your performance in Cameroon at the Africa Championships was exemplary given the challenges you faced as you prepared for the tournament. It is now upon all Kenyans to rally behind you as you prepare for Japan. SportPesa believes in you. "