Kenya men’s handball targeting a podium finish in Brazil.
Kenya men’s Deaf handball team captain Joel Kiilu says their mission at the 24th Summer Deaflympics in
Brazil is to make a podium finish.
The skipper is confident the country will improve her fifth place ranking achieved in Brazil four years ago in the World Deaf Championships.“The last time we competed in the South American nation we were raw, we had no skills at all but so far the team has improved on tactics,” Kiilu said.
The 28 year-old center player says they hope to overcome all their opponents especially Croatia who are the world defending champions.
Kenya is in Group A alongside Brazil, Germany, Serbia and Cameroon while Croatia is in Pool B alongside Turkey, Denmark, Venezuela and Ghana.
“We know our rivals are skilled, they are experienced, but againwe are ready for them going by the level of training we’ve had in the camp,” underscored Kiilu.
Apart from the national team, Kiilu also captains Nairobi Kaloleni estate outfit Young Cobra Handball Club.
Through elaborate training they have had for two weeks at the Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi under head coach Frederick Omole, Kiilu believes Kenya is capable of beating hosts Brazil and Cameroon with ease after studying the rivals on YouTube.
Head coach Kenya Deaf handball team Fredrick Omole
Optimistic Omole has faith in the 15 man squad he has trimmed from the initial 24 who were given a call up.
“When we started training 14 days ago, the players lacked good coordination because they had not gelled. The good thing is they were able to find their rhythm quickly as they have played together before.”
“The team now is in good shape and this has made us to be optimistic for a great showpiece in Brazil,” Omole said.
Omole’s strategy in Brazil is to win two games in their pool which he considers very tough.
The post Kenya men’s handball targeting a podium finish in Brazil. appeared first on KBC.
