Nairobi News

Kenya Prisons women’s team is targeting a semi-finals slot at the Volleyball World Club Cup Championship in Switzerland.

Brimming with confidence, the team was scheduled to fly out last night to Geneva.

In a telephone interview, head coach David Lung’aho said the girls were up to the task.

“Our aim is to reach the semi-finals. Spirits are high and the team is raring to go. We polished our weak areas and the players are looking forward to put their skills to use. We have a secret weapon we shall unleash in Switzerland.”

The team did its final training at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani indoor court onFriday and was given a rest day on Saturday.

Lung’aho said the team received adequate preparation, especially during the Africa Championship that concluded two weeks ago in Nairobi where Kenya beat Tunisia in the final to claim the crown.

The African queens retained the title without dropping a set.

Lungaho said winning the African title was no walk in the park because other teams had improved significantly.

“Times have changed; we can no longer rest on our laurels and assume the title is ours. Kenyan players have to work extra hard to maintain their status on the continent,” the coach said.

Back to the club championship, asked what Prisons will do differently on the world stage unlike at previous championships, Lunga’ho said the players have the right attitude; they know what is required of them and if they stick to the script, they will perform.

“The team is determined to do well, their minds are set. As the best club in Africa, we hope to replicate our good performance on the world stage. Prisons is full of talent, if put to good use, we are confident of making the semi finals,” the tactician said.

Trained locally

In comparison to their opponents, Lung’aho said Prisons trained locally but they have what it takes to deliver.

He said the intense training the team received was sufficient to face any opponent. He warned their opponents to underestimate them at their peril.

Lung’aho said the team is a blend of experience and budding talent.

“Former Lugulu Girls student, 19-year-old Wisa is impressive. She earned a call up to the club championship because she proved herself. She is a quick learner and has a great future,” the coach said.

Lung’aho said the team was focused and will not waver in its bid to make an impact. He urged the team to play as a unit and not to be intimidated by any opponent, saying a positive mindset can achieve a lot.

International exposure

Prisons are in the Pool A togetherher with a team from China and hosts Switzerland.

“I know some clubs had intense international exposure and sophisticated training. But we are going into the championship with clear goals. We shall not be cowed, we shall give as much as we receive,” he said.

Lung’aho said even though there is a feeling Kenya has performed poorly internationally, he is of the opinion that they have put up a good fight.

“Kenyan teams have not able to receive proper exposure because of limited resources. At the same time, he said their opponents boast of height advantage and hi-tech training equipment,” Lung’aho said.

Full contingent: Players – Captain Diana Khisa, left attackers Mercy Moim, Evelyn Makuto, Jane Jepkemboi, right attackers Esther Mwambe, Brakcides Agala, centres Edith Wisa, Joan Chelagat, Dorcas Jepleting, setters Jane Wacu, Salome Wanjala, Elizabeth Nafula (libero)

Officials: Head of delegation – Florence Omundi, head coach David Lungaho, assistant coach Josp Barasa, doctor Peter Nduhiu and team manager David Kilundo.