Africa-Press – Rwanda. Rwanda Energy Group Volleyball Club (REG VC) captain Kavalo Akumuntu has said that he believes the team is set for a turnaround after a challenging start to the season.
REG wrapped up the second week of the 2025/26 Rwanda National Volleyball League with a convincing 3-0 victory over East African University Rwanda (EAUR) on Saturday, October 25.
REG began their campaign on October 7 with a disappointing loss to Kepler VC, a team now guided by their former Cameroonian coach Jean Patrick Ndaki, who signed a two-year contract with the university side.
“In our opening game against Kepler VC, things didn’t go as we expected. It was a bit tough, especially facing our former head coach. However, that can’t be an excuse. We’ve made some adjustments, and now we’re regrouping to become a better team,” Akumuntu told Times Sport after Saturday’s victory.
“That match was really difficult for us. It wasn’t the result we wanted, but it’s always challenging to play against someone who knows your system so well,” he added.
Following the end of the 2024/25 season,where REG finished third after defeating Kepler VC to secure the finish, the club underwent significant changes during the four-month off-season.
They parted ways with key players, including setter Sylvestre Ndayisaba and middle blocker Ronald Muvara, who both joined Gisagara VC, while right attacker Gedeon Angiro moved to Police VC.
To strengthen the squad, REG recruited four new players and appointed Ugandan coach Benon Mugisha. New signings include setter Crispin Ntanteteri, left attacker Merci Gisubizo from APR VC, Kenyan right attacker Nicholas Matui, and Ugandan player Sam Engwau.
“To me, our new players are a good fit for the positions of those who left. For example, Ntanteteri has stepped in very well as a setter. The main focus now is to build chemistry and unity within the team,” Akumuntu said.
Looking ahead, the captain believes REG has what it takes to challenge for the title this season.
“Our team has experienced success before, both in the league and in regional competitions. We’re working hard to bring back those glory moments, with the support of our leaders and fans,” he said.
REG VC will take a break during the third week of the league, which ends on November 1, before returning to action on November 7 to face Police VC in a crucial fourth-week encounter.
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