• Simiyu is part of the provisional team of 19 players and will be crossing her fingers to make the final 16 for the Challenger Cup from July 4-7 in the Philippines.
•Out of the 16, three will be dropped ahead of the Olympic Games in Paris from July 26-August 11.
Image: CHARLENE MALWA
Malkia Strikers' opposite player Loice Simiyu is optimistic of achieving her lifelong dream of competing in the Olympic Games.
Simiyu is part of the provisional team of 19 players and will be crossing her fingers to make the final 16 for the Challenger Cup from July 4-7 in the Philippines. Out of the 16, three will be dropped ahead of the Olympic Games in Paris from July 26-August 11.
Malkia Strikers are scheduled to connect directly to Team Kenya Olympic Camp at Miramas after the Challenger Cup before heading to Paris.
Simiyu, who plays for Kenya Pipeline, was instrumental in Kenya's qualification campaign last year in Cameroon.
Her outstanding performance helped the national team clinch their 10th continental title to secure the sole Africa ticket to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
As she prepares for her potential Olympic debut, she is mentally prepared for whatever decision the technical bench will come up with.
"I feel good and pray I make it to the Philippines squad first. Given a chance, I will give it my best shot and put my best foot forward," she said.
She admitted that the competition in the squad is stiff but she is looking forward to making the team.
Simiyu noted, "From my early days in volleyball to date, it’s been a path filled with challenges but I am happy I have always prevailed."
She emphasised the importance of staying focused on both personal and team goals.
"We all have personal and team goals and I believe if we come together and give our best, we will all achieve our dreams," she added.
Simiyu continued: "As a middle blocker, I have been working on my blocking and coverage and I am happy I have made improvements," she explained.
She draws inspiration from fellow players and mentors. "In Kenya, I look up to Sharon Chumba and internationally, opposite hitter Mellissa Fargas from Turkey inspires me a lot. Watching the Turkish style of play makes me want to give more," she said.
Besides, Simiyu said the support she receives from teammates and coaching staff has been instrumental in her career.
She said the target this year is to build on the performance of last year.
"Last year’s Challenger Cup was okay and we played well. The experience was also worthwhile and victory was well deserved," she stated.
Given a chance, Simiyu plans to handle the pressure of her first Olympics by staying focused.
She said like other players, she wants to use the Olympic stage to expose her talent to the outside world.
"Like Chumba and others, I also want to play abroad and I see the Olympics as a good opportunity," she added.