APR Women volleyball Club assistant coach Yvette Igihozo Cyuzuzo has said that her side is ready and in good shape enough to challenge for the title when the Rwanda Volleyball league 2024 season kicks off on January 20.
APR lost the title to reigning champions Rwanda Revenue Authority last season, but Cyuzuzo insists that her charges are coming back to action as an improved side ready to defy the odds and lift the trophy at the end of the 2024 season.
"After days of preparations, now I can confirm we are ready for the new season. We have prepared well and I am very happy for the players I have at my disposal,” Cyuzuzo told Times Sport.
"We have had enough in the last few weeks. Players are in great shape and upbeat for new season.”
APR open the league campaign against Ruhango Volleyball Club on Saturday 12:00 while their second game of the weekend on Sunday against newcomers East Africa University of Rwanda, both matches take place at be UR-Huye Gymnasium.
Prior to the new season, APR beefed up their squad with new additions as the military side aims for the championship.
Among new signings made include setter Ernestine Akimanizanye and right attacker Claire Nishimwe (both from RRA) as well as young setter Diane Mpuhwezimana who joined from St. Aloys Rwamagana.
APR full squad for new season
Setters: Diane Mpuhwezimana and Ernestine Akimanizanye
Left attackers: Seraphine 'Baby' Mukantambara Yvonne Bayija, Valentine Munezero, Benitha Mukandayisenga and Penelope Musabyimana
Opposite: Claire Nishimwe and Divine Nyirahabimana
Center players: Albertine Uwiringiyimana, Flavia Dusabe, Donatha Musabyemariya and Esperance Mushimiyimana
Liberos: Beatrice Uwamahoro and Judith Kabatesi
Coaching staff:
Head coach: Peter Kamasa, assistant coach: Yvette Gihozo Cyuzuzo, Physical Trainer: Richard Rwamahungu.