Kenya oozing confidence ahead of grueling Africa Beach Games

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HANDBALL Kenya oozing confidence ahead of grueling Africa Beach Games

Joel Omotto 19:19 - 19.06.2023

Coach Titus Kesekwa is counting on the experience of his side having worked on most of their weaknesses ahead of the June 23-30 tournament.

The national men’s handball team coach Titus Kesekwa believes his side has worked on all their weaknesses ahead of the Africa Beach Games set to take place from June 23-30 in Malindi.

Team Kenya are settling in their training camp at Buntwaani Waterpark in Malindi and Kesekwa is now counting on their previous experience in the competition, having rectified most of their mistakes.

"As the coach, I have full confidence in the abilities of our team. When you look at our agility and speed, blocking shots, and communication, the team has really improved,” Kesekwa said as per NOC-K media.

“Each evening, we analyse championships and our previous mistakes. I allow the players to point out mistakes and correct each other and lead from behind. I feel ready, and our main target this time is to reach the finals and bring glory back home to Kenya."

Following a rigorous selection process after the Kenya Beach Games held earlier this year in Malindi, the current squad is composed of 80 percent of players featuring in the local league, giving Kesekwa the much-needed experience, compared to 2019 when a significant portion of the team was newly-formed.

Kenya are in Group A alongside formidable opponents Morocco and Zambia and will feature in 11 games. The hosts will start their campaign against the North Africans, who finished third in the 2019 edition, on Sunday, June 24.

The top three teams from each group, along with the best runner-up, will advance to the semifinals, scheduled for the late afternoon session on the same day.

The final day of action will witness the placement matches in the early session, followed by the thrilling medal encounters in the late afternoon before the highly-anticipated final.

Kenya are preparing not just for the fierce competition but also for tough weather conditions with temperatures expected to reach 30 degrees.

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