Mogeni targets semi with Wafalme in Rwanda

National men's volleyball team, Wafalme Stars', skipper Enock Mogeni did not impress selectors in 2019 when the team assembled in preparation for the Africa Games' zone five qualifiers held at Kasarani. 

Two years later, he heads to Rwanda for the Africa Nations Cup which doubles as the World Championships qualifiers with the armband. The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) player says despite the responsibility that comes with his position, his only pressure is guiding the team to posting good results. 

"It is a great responsibility but there is no pressure whatsoever. All the players know what is expected of us and that makes the leadership role easy," Mogeni offered. 

Wafalme are set to know their group opponents this evening during the draw scheduled for 8pm but the captain, before flying out to Rwanda on Sunday 5 September 2021 was confident in the team's preparations and good showing in Kigali. 

"We started our camp fatigued coming off the very demanding KVF playoffs but everyone was willing to give it their all. We had little time to train but the unity and morale in camp has been amazing. 

We have had solid preparation despite the short time compared to the last time I was in the team on 2019 although I did not make the final squad then. Using the experience we have gained from playing continentally at club level as well as those who have played professionally, we are confident of a good start," said Mogeni. 

The team has not been in action since 2019 and five of the 14 players, including team Mogeni making their debut in the national team. 

Other debutants include KPA's Peter Kamara, teammates Lennis Ochieng, and Dennis Omollo as well as Kenya Defence Forces' (KDF) Nelson Bitok.

"It is a blend of experience and upcoming players making their debut in the national team. What's keeping us motivated is the cohesion we have managed to cultivate Our expectations are high and despite the competition, we are targeting a semis slot. 

Heading to Rwanda having not played any friendly matches is not a big worry. To a small extend, there is some consequence no doubt, seeing as teams like Morocco have been on Rwanda for a while and have played friendly matches with the Rwandese squad, Tunisia have spend some considerable ount of time in Turkey training and playing friendly matches, but we will not dwell on that. We appreciate what we have been able to do," Mogeni added.