Fitnesspoint has provided the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) with gym membership for the national sitting volleyball squad as the team prepares for the 2026 World Championship scheduled to take place in China.

The fitness and wellness centre, which currently operates four branches in Kigali, has entered a landmark partnership aimed at strengthening both the women’s and men’s national teams ahead of the global competition set for July 10–17 in Hangzhou.

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"We previously struggled to find a gym that could accommodate our national team and provide the equipment we need. This collaboration comes at the right time as we prepare tactically for the World Championship,” said NPC president Dominique Bizimana.

This will mark the third consecutive appearance for the women’s team, which is currently ranked eighth in the world after securing qualification by defeating Kenya at the 2025 African Championship.

Right attacker Adeline Marie Mucyo said the partnership puts the team in a strong position to aim higher at the upcoming tournament.

"With this support, we feel that nothing stands in the way of what we have always dreamed of achieving. We still have nearly three months to fully make use of this facility,” she said.

Fitnesspoint founder and Chief Executive Officer Ole Haugom explained that his ambition has always been to support athletes with high goals, noting that working with the national team preparing for the World Championship is a proud moment for the gym.

"Reaching the World Championship level is not easy. Supporting such ambitious men and women keeps us aligned with our mission. This is the beginning of contributing to the future of the country and the athletic community,” he said.

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The national team is expected to officially enter residential camp in early June ahead of the competition. Bizimana noted that the main target for both squads is to improve their global ranking, with the men’s team currently ranked 15th in the world.

"Rwandans should be proud of our global standing. It is not easy to promise a gold medal, but our goal is to improve our ranking and continue progressing,” Bizimana said.