Volleyball: Mana steps down, REG names Kwizera as new coach
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Pierre Marshal Kwizera (left) was appointed as new head coach on Tuesday, a day after Jean Paul Mana (right) stepped down from the position. (Damas Sikubwabo)

The national volleyball league side, REG, have appointed former Rwanda international Pierre Marshal Kwizera as the club’s new head coach following the abrupt resignation of Jean Paul Mana from the position on Monday.

Former coach Mana stepped down two days after losing to Gisagara in finals of the Play-off Games over the weekend at Amahoro Stadium. He had been in charge for eighteen months.

While commenting on his resignation in an exclusive interview with Times Sport on Tuesday, a visibly reserved Mana cited personal reasons as to why he decided to step down before noting that "I am indebted to club management and players for the honor to serve REG as head coach over the last one year and a half. I know my successor Marshal (Kwizera) will do a great job.”

"When we started the 2017/2018 season, the target was to win the championship. After failing to, I felt I needed some time to think before I decide what I do and where to go next,” the former REG coach further explained.

Former assistant coach and veteran center blocker Kwizera will be in charge for the remainder of the season. His tenure as coach starts this weekend when the club attempts to retain Rutsindura Memorial Tournament they won last year in Huye district, Southern Province.

Time Sport repeatedly tried to reach REG volleyball club president, Geoffrey Zawadi, for a comment about Mana’s resignation and Kwizera’s appointment but all efforts were futile.

Editorial@newtimes.co.rw