Tarus pares down Wafalme Stars roster for Africa Games qualifiers

Wafalme Strikers head coach Gideon Tarus© Capital FM

VOLLEYBALL Tarus pares down Wafalme Stars roster for Africa Games qualifiers

Festus Chuma 14:06 - 13.01.2024

Coach Tarus finalizes a leaner 16-player Wafalme Stars squad for the upcoming Africa Games volleyball qualifiers in Egypt.

National men’s volleyball team, Wafalme Stars, has streamlined its squad to a robust 16 players, prepping for the high-stakes 2024 CAVB Zone 5 African Games qualifiers slated for Egypt later this month.

This strategic move marks a significant phase in the team's journey towards reclaiming their position in continental volleyball.

Historically, the Wafalme Stars have showcased commendable performances at the Africa Games.

They reached their zenith in 2007, narrowly missing a podium finish after a tough loss to hosts Algeria in the bronze medal match.

Their resilience paid off in 2011 in Maputo, where they gloriously clinched the bronze.

However, their absence in the 2015 and 2019 editions has only fueled their determination to return to the continental forefront.

Under the vigilant eye of head coach Gideon Tarus, the team exhibits a promising blend of experience and ambition.

Tarus, alongside Assistant Coach Elisha Aliwa and Team Trainer Denis Mokua, has undertaken rigorous evaluations to sculpt the team, leading to the difficult decision of excluding promising talents Gregory Kiplimo and Eugene Okello from the initial 18-man line-up.

The team, captained by the dynamic Brian Melly, is now entering a crucial phase of intensified training.

They aim to finalize the elite 14-man roster shortly, a decision eagerly anticipated before their departure to Egypt.

The Wafalme Stars commenced their training regime this week, with a focus on strategic refinement and physical conditioning, in anticipation of their January 20 departure for Cairo.

The coaching team, including Trainer Denis Mokua and Team Manager Brackcides Agala, are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to engineer a formidable comeback on the continental stage.

The team's physical well-being and administrative readiness are being meticulously overseen by Physiotherapist Antonette Akhabonje and Head of Delegation Charles B.D Nyaberi ensuring that the squad is in peak condition for the challenges ahead.

The upcoming Africa games qualifier tournament, set to take place from January 21st to 30th in Egypt, presents a critical opportunity for the Wafalme Stars.

The squad a blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, promises to bring a diverse set of skills and strategies to the court.

The setters, Brian Melly and Kelvin Kipkosgei, are expected to orchestrate the game with their tactical acumen.

Liberos James Mutero, Sam Juma, and Hudson Kipchumba will be pivotal in defense, ensuring the team's resilience against formidable opponents.

The opposite players, Elphas Makuto and Joshua Kimaru, bring a blend of power and precision, essential for clinching crucial points.

Middle blockers Wilson Cheruiyot, Shadrack Misiko, Brian Kamonde, and Levis Ogutu will be the backbone of the team's defense, while outside hitters Denis Omollo, Sila Kipruto, Naftali Chumba, Denis Esokon, and Nicholas Matui are expected to deliver explosive performances.  

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