This archive report was first published on 16 December 2019.
Kenya's national women volleyball team, the Malkia Strikers, have been dealt a blow ahead of the Africa Tokyo 2020 Olympics qualifiers, scheduled for January 2-10 in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Long-serving setter Janet Wanja, 35, has opted out of the tournament, citing personal reasons. Despite being given an extension by the technical bench to attend to family issues, Wanja failed to report to camp by close of business on Sunday.
Head coach Paul Bitok held lengthy talks with Wanja, who has been a key player for the team. Bitok expressed his gratitude for Wanja's services, saying, "As a team we are very grateful for Wanja's services all through. Coupled with her experience she is always very committed, smart and is a natural leader! Wanja remains one of the best setters Kenya has ever produced. Personally I'm grateful for having worked with Wanja, I am looking forward to future national duties with her."
Wanja's absence is expected to give Joy Lusenaka, the award-winning setter from Kenya Prisons, a chance to shine. Lusenaka has been feted as the best setter in the Kenya Volleyball Federation National League for the last two seasons.
Team captain Jane Wacu, who has previously partnered with Wanja in almost all national team assignments, described Wanja's absence as a big blow. "The two - Wanja and Atuka - are key players. I have partnered with Wanja since I joined the national team in 2006. While the gap will give other players chance to show their worth, I had hoped we would finish the journey together with Wanja. I wish her well going forward," Wacu said.
The Malkia Strikers will battle for the sole slot reserved for Africa with Cameroon, Egypt, Botswana, and Mauritius.
