Tarus impressed with level of competition as Wafalme intensify preps

National men’s volleyball team head coach Gideon Tarus has asserted Wafalme Stars’ zeal to leave a mark in this year’s CAVB Nations Championship set for 1 to 15 September in Egypt.

The team has been in non-residential training at Nyayo gymnasium combining both strength and conditioning training at the gym with some defensive work on the court.

No time to waste as Wafalme Stars hit ground running

“After five days of training I can confidently say we are in a good place. The competition in training is intense. Everyone has brought their A game and I remain confident that the team will do well,” Tarus offered.

The team is expected to begin their residential training on Monday, a move that gives Tarus and his bench enough time with the squad to prepare for the arduous task ahead.

“We are waiting on the final word from the federation on residential training on Monday. They have our full plan so I remain hopeful that we will be in residential for the remaining time. Next week we now begin working on our plays and coordination, squad rotation and getting the basics right,” Tarus offered.

Wafalme have their work cut out as, they prepare to compete with teams that have, in the lead-up to the competition, had camps internationally for the showpiece.

The Moroccan National team is reported to be refining their skills in Antalya, Turkey, while the hosts, Egypt are in Italy before a final camp in Morocco.

Defending champions Tunisia have been in Qatar for the 2023 FIVB Challenger Cup, intensifying their title defense.

Tarus is hopeful that the team will travel to Egypt well in time for some friendly matches against local clubs in Egypt before the competition begins.

“It is tough to get friendly matches locally as players are off season. We will make plans for that, if we will be in Egypt early enough,” he added.