Bitok eager to lead Malkia Strikers to new heights

Team work, mentally and physical preparation and strengthening weaknesses in receptions are the priority areas for newly appointed Malkia Strikers head coach Paul Bitok.

The former national men’s team captain took over from Italian Shailene Ramdoo on Thursday and is eager to make his mark for his country after an illustrious career in Rwanda.

Bitok’s homecoming had been on the cards after he turned down an extended contract in Rwanda after 10 years in which he turned the East African into a volleyball force in the region.

His first assignment as head coach begins when he guides the nine-time African champions for the 12th African Games title defence in Morocco from August 19-31.

“This is my third time to be with the team the last time we won the African title in 2006, I want to assure Kenyans that will do everything possible to defend the All Africa games title.

“I know plenty have to be done after losing to Cameroon in the African Championship, and also in Italy where they played two good games and lost the other miserably.

“I watched the Video and in this short period we have, I have high expectations to see Kenya back as African champions but I will need everyone’s support,” Bitok told Citizen Digital.

On team work Bitok, 48, believes the inclusion of young blood in the team will increase Kenya’s chances of qualifying for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.

In Morocco Kenya will renew their rivalry with African champions Cameroon, Senegal na Algeria a group christened the group of death.