NSSF injects sh70m in regional volleyball tournament

By Samson Opus

KAMPALA - Sponsors NSSF have boosted the NSSF-KAVC International Volleyball tournament with a sh70m package.

The offer raises the stake higher in the 19th edition of the regional event that gets underway in Kampala on Saturday.

The two-day event will be preceded by the technical committee meeting on Friday.

 While unveiling the package at Workers House yesterday, NSSF Managing Director Richard Byarugaba reiterated their commitment to the development of sports as part of their corporate social responsibility.

“We are pleased to continue to partner with KAVC in this event. This gives us an opportunity to contribute to the development of volleyball and nurture youth talent,” he said.

Following the offer, organisers have increased the cash prizes on offer during the tournament to $3,000 (about sh10m).

The champions in both the men and women categories will walk away with $1,000 (sh3.5m) up from $500 (sh1.7m) offered last year.

The team that finishes as runners-up will pocket $500 (sh1.7m) and the third-placed team $300 (sh1m).

KAVC vice president Diana Agaba who received the package pledged to organize an exciting competition.

“We are glad to have NSF on board. This [package] will definitely inspire the level of competition to greater heights,” she said.

The annual event dedicated in memory of the founders of Uganda’s oldest volleyball club KAVC is expected to involve 22 visiting teams from Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, South Sudan and DR Congo.

A formidable opposition is expected from Kenyan sides including Administration Police, Prisons, GSU, KCB and Pipeline.

Those from Rwanda will include Rayon Sport, APR, Kigali Volleyball Club men and women.

Home side Sky Volleyball Club are defending champions in the men’s category while Rwanda Revenue Authority are the reigning champions in the women’s bracket.

Other local teams that are currently gearing up for the challenge are Sport-S, KCCA, COBAP and KAVC men and women. Ndejje and Nkumba University will also take part.