Malkia Strikers TM John Oronje feels dropped players have role to play
Malkia Strikers players in action against Poland during their FIVB World Championship Group G clash at the Saphan Hin Stadium in Phuket, Thailand, on August 25, 2025. Photo courtesy of SJAK.
Audio By Vocalize
Speaking in Phuket, Thailand, Oronje, who also serves as the Kenya Volleyball Federation’s Sports Organising Secretary, emphasised that experience will continue to be key in building a strong squad despite Kenya’s impressive showing with a largely youthful team at the global stage.
“This was a relatively new squad. They performed well, and we want to laud them for the performance they have posted at the World Championship. But that does not mean we’ve locked out the experienced players that were left out of this championship. Their services will still be needed,” he said.
Among those overlooked for the competition were former captains Mercy Moim and Triza Atuka, KCB skipper Edith Wisa, hard-hitting opposite Sharon Chepchumba, attacker Leonida Kasaya and libero Agripina Kundu.
Oronje praised the youthful side that crashed out in the group stages, noting that the average age was just 23, with standout performances from youngsters such as 18-year-old Terry Tata.
However, he underlined the importance of balancing that youth with the maturity and leadership that seasoned internationals bring.
At the same time, he called for greater investment in infrastructure and technology—including Video Challenge and VIS systems—to bridge the gap with world volleyball powerhouses.
He credited Kenya’s improved display to having more league matches played indoors and urged that this be made a standard going forward.
“We are happy with the team’s performance, but we know that to grow, we must mix youth with experience. The future is bright, and the senior players remain part of that future,” Oronje added.
The ten-time African champions defeated Vietnam 3-0 sets to sign off the global event in style, following 3-0 loss to Germany and 3-1 sets to Poland in Group ‘G’ matches.
The first batch of the team landed in Nairobi on Friday, consisting of Celestine Simiyu, Mercy Iminza, Belinda Barasa, Gladys Ekaru, Daisy Leting, Lorine Chebet. The final contingent will jet back on Sunday.
Leave a Comment