The recently concluded 2026 CAVB Women's African Nations Volleyball Championship in Nairobi gave rise to new sporting celebrities in Kenya.Kenya's women's national volleyball team, the Malkia Strikers, captured the country's attention with an impressive campaign that saw them reach the final. Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsAlthough they fell to Egypt in the title decider and missed out on an automatic qualification ticket to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, their performance earned them widespread admiration from fans across the country.##NAJAVA_MECA_9953037##For young stars Malyne Terry Tata and Marian Elizabeth Sokoiyo, the tournament has brought a new level of recognition both on and off the court.Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Tata revealed that her impressive performances had been followed by a flood of messages on her social media platforms and mobile phone.“A lot. I have been receiving hundreds of messages lately. Most of them are congratulatory messages with many people telling me that I am a great player with a great future, to which I am very grateful,” said Tata.Terry Tata breaks silence on reported move abroad after starring for Malkia StrikersThe 19-year-old enjoyed an outstanding championship, earning the Best Opposite Hitter award and a place in the tournament's Dream Six.Sokoiyo also made the prestigious Dream Six after being named the tournament's Best Middle Blocker. Her performances earned her widespread praise from Kenyans, both online and in public spaces.“I must say that I am happy about it. I am a bit funny and jovial in character, which endears me to a lot of people.Equally, I played the matches with a lot of passion, and so seeing that effort being recognized by Kenyans is great, and I send them love also,” said Sokoiyo.Why Marian Sokoiyo backs Malkia Strikers to get over deflating Egypt lossThe newfound attention marks a significant moment for the two youngsters, who have emerged as some of the brightest prospects in Kenya's women's volleyball setup.The Malkia Strikers will now turn their attention to preparations for the 2027 FIVB Women's World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States and Canada.