The local volleyball governing body, FRVB, has confirmed Rwanda national men’s U21 team and the women’s U23 team will be competing at this year’s African championships. Nigeria will host the African U21 Men’s Volleyball Championship that runs from September 12-19, 2018 while Tunisia hosts the African U23 Women’s Volleyball Championship. However, the Confederation of African Volleyball (CAVB) is yet to reveal dates for the women’s tournament in Tunisia. According to FRVB Executive Secretary, Christian Hatumimana, the two teams will start non-residential preparations next month before reporting for a two-week boot camp in August. He further revealed to Sunday Sport that Kenyan tactician Paul Bitok is in charge of the men’s U21 team while Christopher Mudahinyuka will coach the women’s U23 team. “Most of the players for both teams will be selected from the second division league, which concludes next month. That is why we decided to start preparations in July. Rwanda is one of the best volleyball countries in Africa and we will work hard to uphold that status,” Hatumimamana told Sunday Sport in a telephone interview on Saturday. At the 2013 edition, Rwanda finished as bronze medalists after defeating Morocco in three sets; 27-25, 27-25, 25-21. It is also the last time that the country took part in the competition. The two competitions will also serve as qualifiers for the 2019 FIVB World Championships. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
