Malkia Strikers’ star attacker, Pamela Adhiambo, has made a significant move in her volleyball career by joining Finland’s top volleyball team, LP Viesti. This transition marks a pivotal moment for Adhiambo, who has demonstrated exceptional skill and tenacity on the court, culminating in her recent standout performance at the Paris Olympics.
Adhiambo, who is 23 years old, has been a cornerstone for the Malkia Strikers, Kenya’s national volleyball team. Her Olympic debut was nothing short of spectacular, especially her performance against Poland, where she emerged as the top scorer with 14 points. This performance was a testament to her attacking prowess, which has been a key asset for the Malkia Strikers.
Adhiambo’s journey to LP Viesti began long before the Olympics. The Finnish club, known for its dominance in the league with nine championships to its name, had prepared an eight-month contract for Adhiambo before the Olympic Games commenced. The contract was finalized just as the Malkia Strikers left Paris, with Adhiambo traveling directly to Finland to sign the deal.
Adhiambo’s performance in the Olympics showcased her ability to compete at the highest level. She accumulated a total of 23 points during the tournament, including seven against Brazil in the opening match. However, her opportunities were limited in the game against Japan, where she managed only two points from four attempts, primarily due to a lack of ball sets for her attacks.
Before her Olympic success, Adhiambo had a remarkable career with Kenya Pipeline. As an alumnus of Nyakach Girls’ High School, she quickly rose through the ranks, making a significant impact on the team. Over her three seasons with Kenya Pipeline, Adhiambo helped secure the women’s league title in 2022 and earned the prestigious Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
Adhiambo’s journey to becoming a key player for the Malkia Strikers was not without challenges. Initially overlooked by former head coach Luizomar de Moura for international assignments, her consistent performance and dedication forced current coach Japheth Munala to include her in his plans. Her resilience and exceptional form have been evident since joining Kenya Pipeline, attracting interest from top clubs in Rwanda. However, Adhiambo chose to remain with Pipeline, further honing her skills and solidifying her reputation as a formidable attacker.
Adhiambo’s move to LP Viesti is a significant milestone in her career, marking her as one of the latest Malkia Strikers stars to join international clubs. She follows in the footsteps of Veronica Adhiambo, who plays for Tarsus Belediyespor in Turkey, and Sharon Chepchumba, who had a stint with Greek giants PAOK Thessaloniki before returning to KCB. This trend of Malkia Strikers players joining international clubs highlights the growing recognition of Kenyan volleyball talent on the global stage.
As Adhiambo embarks on this new chapter with LP Viesti, her journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes in Kenya and beyond. Her story is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and seizing opportunities. With her impressive track record and undeniable talent, Adhiambo is poised to make a significant impact in the Finnish league, further establishing herself as one of the top attackers in the sport.
