The head coach of Rwanda Volleyball, Paulo De Tarso has named his final 14-man squad for the 2023 African Men’s Nations Volleyball Championship in Egypt.
The championship is scheduled for 20th to 30th October and will also serve as the 2024 Olympic qualifiers.
De Tarso who finished fourth position at the Women’s Championship will be assisted by Dominic Ntawangundi and Yakan Guma Lawrence ahead of the men’s championship.
De Tarso will be looking to build a strong team ready to improve their performance and challenge for the top places following Rwandans sixth place finish at the 2021 edition held in Kigali.
At least seven out of 14 players have previously played in the national team while seven others namely Crispin Ntanteteri, Merci Gisubizo, Eric Kwizera, Samuel Niyonshima, Dieu Est La Ndahayo, Alain Irakoze, Emmy Twagirayesu and Venuste Gatsinzi will be making their international debut in Egypt.
The dropped players include setter Cedric Ngaboyintwari and libero Sadru Manzi of APR VC and REG left attacker Patrick Akumuntu Kavalo.
According to the social media page of Rwanda Volleyball Federation, De Tarso will travel to Egypt where he will the join men’s team for the final preparations for the tournament.
Final squad
Setters: Nsabimana Mahoro Yvan and Ntanteteri Ivan Crispin
Outside Hitter: Merci Gisubizo, Eric Kwizera, Samuel Niyonshima and Dieu Est La Ndahayo
Middle blocker: Ronald Muvala, Emmy Twagirayesu, Prince Kanamugire and Placide Madison Sibomana
Opposite: Venuste Gatsinzi and Wickliffe Dusenge
Libero: Simon Rwigema and Alain Irakoze
