GSU volleyball team players celebrates a point when they played against Kenya Prisons during the Kenya Volleyball Federation National League play-offs at the Makande GYM, November 26, 2016. Prisons won 3-2. [PHOTO BY GIDEON MAUNDU/STANDARD].

National men's volleyball champions General Service Unit (GSU) have set an ambitious semi-final target in the African Club Championships from March 27-April 5 in Cairo, Egypt.

GSU, who will be returning to the continental competition after missing in action last year in Tunisia, were yesterday beaming with confidence at the Kasarani Gymnasium as head coach Gideon Tarus put his players through the paces ahead of their departure tomorrow.

GSU’s best-ever performance in the continental showpiece was in 1995 in Benin, when they won bronze medal.

But having had to contend with poor reception and weak blocks in the 2016 tournament in Egypt, where they finished 17th, Tarus has challenged his new-look side to replay their 1995 success in West Africa.

“Of course, it is challenging but we have trained well, rectified our past mistakes (reception and weak blocks) and now determined to perform well in Cairo.

"Missing last year’s tournament was a big challenge to our players. So, all of them are in an upbeat mood and want to prove a point,” Tarus told The Standard Sports after naming his 14-man squad.

“We have a youthful and quality squad that can emulate our performance in 1995. We performed poorly the last time we were here, but I am encouraged with our preparations. If I miss the trophy, we should at least reach the semis.”

The former national team head coach was also quick to back the youthful quartet of Abiud Chirchir, Simon Kipkorir, Shadrack Misiko and Bonentry Wekesa.  

“We only have two senior players, the rest are young players but the good thing is that they have international experience,” said Tarus.

“We have a very talented player in Chirchir. We didn’t have a player of his quality in that position. He is an exceptional player and I can only compare him to Chemos (Michael).”

Though reception is still a concern to many Kenyan teams, captain David Kirwa is confident of a positive outing.

“So far, so good. The boys are eager to have a good show. The training has been fantastic and we are optimistic of performing well,” said Kirwa.

“As you are aware, reception is important and that's where we have concentrated on in our training."

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