This archive report was first published on 25 June 2021.
On June 25, 2021, Malkia Strikers head coach Paul Bitok made the tough decision to drop middle blocker Violet Makuto and libero Elizabeth Wanyama from his final team of 12 for the Tokyo Olympic Games.
Bitok had a team of 14 training at their Moi Sports Centre Kasarani bubble, but due to Olympic restrictions, he had to name only 12. This decision was not taken lightly, as all 14 players had worked extremely hard.
According to Bitok, "It has been a very hard process to try and pick the final travelling team to the Olympics in Tokyo because all these 14 players have worked extremely hard. But we had to make tough decisions and we had to use statistics to know who was the most efficient in training routines as well as the training games we play."
Team captain Mercy Moim expressed her disappointment at the decision, saying, "It is very hard as a captain to see my teammates not make into the team but it is always a tough decision to make. For the team that is selected, we will do our best to prepare for the Olympic Games."
Moim will lead the squad of 12 that will head for the Tokyo Games. The team will be preparing for the Olympics, but coach Bitok has left the window open for any eventuality as the deadline for the FIVB registration is June 5.
Bitok stated, "We are still trying to see whether we can be allowed to have a list of 14 but also, anything can happen between now and July 5. We will still want to have the two remain in camp but if they decide to go back home it is still okay."
The final squad for Malkia Strikers is as follows:
- Left attacker: Mercy Moim, Noelle Murambi, Pamela Chepkurui, Leonida Kasaya.
- Middle blockers: Edith Wisa, Lorine Chebet, Gladys Ekaru.
- Opposite hitters: Sharon Chepchumba, Immaculate Chemutai.
- Setters: Jane Wacu, Joy Luseneka.
- Libero: Aggripina Kundu.
