NATIONAL women sitting volleyball team yesterday left the country for Hangzhou City in China aboard Qatar Airways ahead of the World Paravolley Intercontinental Cup set for March 17-23. Making their debut at the quadrennial event, the Rwandan team kicks off their campaign against USA on March 17. The team which has been training at Amahoro NPC gymnasium for the last four weeks is in good form and ready to impress at the world stage, according to assistant coach, Jean Marie Nsengiyumva. “This is a great occasion for our girls to face the world’s best and gain match experience ahead of the Paralympic Games. We have had quality preparations, players are in great shape and ready to take their game to another level,” Nsengiyumva said on Friday. Peter Karreman’s team made history last July when they came from a set down to beat Egypt 3-2 in the final of African qualifiers for this year’s Paralympic Games slated for September 7-18 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The week-long world class competition will attract 13 teams in women’s category. Rwanda has been drawn in the same group with hosts China, US, Ukraine, Ireland, Brazil and Canada. Players Liliane Mukobwankawe, Beatha Nyinawabantu, Providence Nyirantungane, Solange Nyiraneza, Alice Musabyemariya, Carine Kwizera, Yvonne Imanishimwe, Claudine Murebwayire, Claudine Bazubagira, Agnes Nyiranshimiyimana, Clementine Umutoni and Sandrine Nyirambarushimana. Officials Karreman (head coach), Nsengiyumva (assistant coach), Angelique Niragire, Jean Pierre Nkurayija, Erick Gaju, Jean Bosco Mpatswenumugabo and Celestin Nzeyimana (NPC president). editorial@newtimes.co.rw
