six-time Rwandan champions, Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) women volleyball team, are optimistic to put up a strong fight to retain the KAVC Memorial title at its upcoming 22nd edition come August 3-5 in Kampala, Uganda. Last year, the tax collectors side overcame Uganda’s Vision VC in four sets (3-1) to lift the title. In the men’s category, APR – another Rwandan side – edged compatriots Kirehe in a five-set (3-2) thriller to win the 21st edition’s title of the annual regional tournament. According to RRA assistant coach, Jean de Dieu Masumbuko, his ladies are fit and fired up for their title defence. “We have had good preparations for the last two weeks at Amahoro stadium, we are confident and well aware of ourselves, and that’s the most important in a competition. We know how to adjust in any situation,” he told Times Sport on Tuesday. “KAVC is one of the biggest tournaments in the region, and we take it very seriously. We need to be calm and ready for the challenge,” Masumbuko added. The veteran volleyballer also revealed that his side will depart for Uganda on Thursday morning by road and have a light training session later in the day before the three-day tournament gets underway the next day at Lugogo Indoor Arena. At this year’s tournament, Rwanda will be represented by seven teams – four in men and three women’s teams. Teams Men: APR, Rwanda Energy Group (REG), University of Tourism Technology and Business Studies (UTB) and Gisagara Women: Rwanda Revenue Authority, APR and IPRC- Kigali editorial@newtimes.co.rw
