SELECTION HEADACHE

KPA to name final Club Championship squad on May 5

The 16-member training squad is currently in a residential training camp fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the African show.

In Summary

• The men's tournament is set for May 11-23 inKelibia.

 
• The team has finished fifth in the past two editions and Mulinge acknowledged improvement is needed in terms of performance.

KPA players receive instructions from coach Sammy Mulinge in a past match
KPA players receive instructions from coach Sammy Mulinge in a past match
Image: /FILE

Kenya Ports Authority will name the final squad of 14 players for the African Club volleyball championship set for Tunisia on May 5 according to coach Sammy Mulinge.

The 16-member training squad is currently in a residential training camp fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the African show.

The men's tournament is set for May 11-23  in Kelibia with KPA set to travel on May 9.

The team has finished fifth in the past two editions and Mulinge acknowledged improvement is needed in terms of performance.

"We will name the final squad by Friday. So far so good. The players are psyched up and keen to make a mark on the international stage," Mulinge said.

"We want to thank the management for what they are doing. We have become regular participants in the continental assignment and I am sure the boys will not disappoint."

Mulinge, who doubles up as the national beach volleyball coach, said Algeria poses a threat to KPA's chances of a podium finish.

"Last year, Algeria gave the tournament a wide berth. If they will be in Tunisia this year, then we have to expect a tough match," Mulinge pointed out.

North African teams have dominated the competition over the last decade. Mulinge said that was expected considering the investment the Arab nations have done in sports in general.

"Their performance is a result of investment. Look at football and basketball for example. We must accept investment is a catalyst for good performance.

"Teams in North Africa have gyms, something that is unheard of in Kenya. We just have a handful. We need to invest in facilities if we have to catch up with our opponents," Mulinge finalised.