Wafalme Stars unveil final squad for Africa Games qualifiers

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VOLLEYBALL Wafalme Stars unveil final squad for Africa Games qualifiers

Festus Chuma 15:03 - 22.01.2024

National volleyball team announces final squad for CAVB Zone 5 qualifiers, excluding a key hitter and libero due to injury.

National men’s volleyball team head coach Gideon Tarus has unveiled the final squad for the Wafalme Stars, as they gear up for the intense competition at the 2024 CAVB Zone 5 African Games qualifiers in Egypt.

Sila Kipruto, known for his prowess as an outsider hitter, and seasoned libero Sam Juma have missed out on securing their places in the final squad.

Juma’s absence, in particular, is a result of an injury he sustained in a recent build-up match, leaving the team without one of its key defensive anchors.

The qualifiers, doubling as the Africa Zone V championship, is not just another tournament for the Wafalme Stars. This Cairo showdown represents a vital opportunity to clinch their third appearance at the African Games.

Wafalme Stars captain, Brian Melly, expressed his strategic perspective on the upcoming challenges, particularly the need to devise a robust game plan against the formidable host nation, Egypt.

"We know they are a powerhouse in Africa, but with rigorous training and meticulous planning, we are confident. Our 3-2 victory over them in Rwanda is a testament to our capability. With focus and determination, qualifying for the African Games should be within our reach," Melly was quoted by Standard in a recent interview.

The team's composition reflects a blend of experience and youth, aimed at building a resilient and versatile squad.

The setters, led by captain Brian Melly and Kelvin Kipkosgei, are expected to orchestrate the team’s offensive strategies. Liberos James Mutero and Hudson Kipchumba will have the crucial role of fortifying the team’s defense in Juma’s absence.

The opposite players, Elphas Makuto and Joshua Kimaru, are poised to bring firepower to the team's attacks. Meanwhile, the middle blockers, including Wilson Cheruiyot, Shadrack Misiko, Brian Kamonde, and Levis Ogutu, will be pivotal in both offensive and defensive plays.

The outside hitters, a crucial segment of the team, comprises Denis Omollo, Naftali Chumba, Denis Esokon, and Nicholas Matui, each bringing unique skills to the fore.

The Wafalme Stars have had a mixed bag of results in their previous African Games appearances, with their last notable success being a bronze medal in Maputo, Mozambique, in 2011.

Final 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 

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