Tarus: Early preparations key as Wafalme Stars gear for continental glory

General Service Unit (GSU) head coach Gideon Tarus will continue his duties with the national men’s volleyball team, Wafalme Stars.

Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) on Wednesday 12 July confirmed that Tarus would take charge of the team with no changes made to the coaching unit that was in charge when the team last played in 2021. 

The GSU boss will be deputised by David Lugh'aho as the first assistant while Sammy Mulinge will serve as the second assistant. Elisha Aliwa will continue his services as a trainer. 

Tarus is expected to name his team soon as they begin preparations for the upcoming Africa Men's Nations Cup slated for 1 to 15 September in Egypt. 

With CAVB's deadline for submission of the squad set for 19 July, the technical bench is likely to name the team before then with Tarus maintaining that the team should be in training as soon as possible.

"The team has been out of action since the continental tournament in Rwanda back in 2021 and it is important we begin training early. 

What's more, unlike in 2021 when players were actively engaged with their clubs and thus were physically fit, the league is not on and players' fitness levels will need to be worked on before we get down to other tactical aspects," Tarus, who promised to release the squad 'soon' told Mozzart Sport. 

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The tactician is, however, confident of a stronger squad arguing that Kenya has more players plying their trade outside the country than was the case in 2021 and the local league's competitiveness adds to the pool the technical bench has to choose from. 

"We are looking to include both experience and youth in the provisional squad of 20. Additionally, we will pay close attention to back court defense, blocking and left attacking. 

In 2021, the team did okay on reception and we want to pick from there and have a formidable side that will be solid on all departments," Tarus offered, adding that he is looking to have all the players in training from the get go as that would male training smooth. 

Among the foreign-based players expected to help Wafalme Stars challenge for a maiden title is SJAK player of the month for May, Simeon 'Kosirai' Kipkorir. 

The MS Boussalem player was named the best middle blocker at this year's CAVB Club Championships as his side lifted the continental title at the expense of favourites Zamalek.

Others include skipper Enock Mogeni, setter Brian Melly and Abiud Chirchir. Additionally, Peter Kamara, Dennis Omolo and Moses Sialo who enjoyed professional stints earlier in the season are also expected to be named. 

Gideon Tarus - Head Coach

David Lung'aho Mutsami - 1st Assistant Coach

Sammy Mutemi Mulinge - 2nd Assistant Coach

Elisha Aliwa Ragot - Trainer

Alfred Chedotum - Team Manager