Wafalme Stars coach Gideon Tarus reveals squad for Africa Games Qualifiers
Coach Tarus has named a squad with new faces and seasoned players for CAVB Zone Five Challenge to be held in Egyp
In anticipation of the CAVB Zone Five Africa Games qualifiers set to kick off on January 26, the national men's volleyball team, Wafalme Stars, is ready to make a historic return to the Africa Games after an absence since 2011. Coach Gideon Tarus has unveiled his final squad, carefully selected after two weeks of rigorous training.
The squad, captained by the skillful setter Brian Melly, aims to secure qualification as the best-placed team from the zone. The team faces tough competition from hosts Egypt and Burundi, the only confirmed participants so far in the upcoming tournament.
Experienced players Sila Kipruto and first-choice libero Sam Juma, who suffered an injury during training, unfortunately miss out on the final squad of 16. However, the team welcomes back Elphas Makuto and Levis Ogutu, adding valuable experience to the lineup.
Coach Tarus expressed confidence in his chosen players, stating, "After two weeks of training, we have picked the best possible squad for battle. I am confident the players selected for duty will have the job done."
Had the opportunity to watch @kenyavolleybal men's team Wafalme Stars in their final training match ahead of the CAVB African Nations Championship in Egypt; we have a decent team. All the best in Egypt gentlemen! pic.twitter.com/Mumq3BQRwj
— Matheka (@Lynmatheka) September 1, 2023
The squad, consisting solely of Kenyan-based players, will see several debutants, including the promising 20-year-old libero Hudson Kipchumba, Equity's middle blocker Wilson Cheruiyot, and the dynamic duo of outside hitter Denis Esokon and Nicholas Matui.
The team is set to depart for Egypt on January 23, alongside their female counterparts, Malkia Strikers. The coaching and support staff, led by Head Coach Gideon Tarus, include 1st Assistant Coach Elisha Aliwa, 2nd Assistant Coach Denis Mokua, Physiotherapist Antonette Akhabonje, Team Manager Brackcides Agala, Technical Coordinator Paul Bitok, and Head of Delegations Charles Nyabe.
With a blend of experience and exciting new talent, Wafalme Stars aims to make a statement at the CAVB Zone Five Africa Games qualifiers and secure their spot at the Africa Games, marking a significant achievement for Kenyan men's volleyball.
Full squad
Setters: Brian Melly - Captain, Kelvin Kipkosgei
Libero: James Mutero, Hudson Kipchumba
Opposite players: Elphas Makuto, Joshua Kimaru
Middle blockers: Wilson Cheruiyot, Shadrack Misiko, Brian Kamonde, Levis Ogutu
Outside hitters: Denis Omollo, Naftali Chumba, Denis Esokon Nicholas Matui
Coaching and support staff
Head Coach: Gideon Tarus
1st Assistant Coach: Elisha Aliwa
2nd Assistant Coach: Denis Mokua
Physiotherapist: Antonette Akhabonje
Team Manager: Brackcides Agala
Technical Coordinator: Paul Bitok
Head of Delegation: Charles Nyaberi
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