V-ball league: UTB aiming for top four finish next season

University of Tourism Technology and Business Studies (UTB) volleyball club have set themselves a target of finishing in the top four in their second season in the national League, according to coach Sylvester Mbanza. The Kicukiro-based side finished in 7th position last season, but are looking to do a lot better next season, which is scheduled to start on January 13. “My team are still young and playing in a big competition, but we are getting better and better each year. Our aim is to continue building a strong team for the future and help the players to study and get jobs. The target this season is to finish in the top four and play in the playoffs,” said Mbanza. However, Mbanza warned that top teams should expect a tough challenge. “This is our second season and we are looking to challenge for the top four, but if the top teams slip, we will go for the title and other trophies that we are going to play for.” UTB started preparations for next season last month—last week they played a warm-up match against IPRC-East, which they won 3-1. Mbanza has reinforced his side after signing of players like Patrick Kavalo Akimana from league champions Gisagara VC, Flely Muyuku (IPRC-South), William Mudahemuka (Gisagara), Fred Mutabazi from Kirehe and Jean Paul Sibomana from IPRC-South. Gisagara and Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) are the defending champions in the men and women’s categories, and the two teams will represent Rwanda at the 2018 Africa Club Championships. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

Sports

V-ball league: UTB aiming for top four finish next season