Maiyo, Chemos not special players, says coach Gitau

Kenya Volleyball Men's team head coach Paul Gitau has explained the reasons behind the exclusion of captain Phillip Maiyo, assistant captain Elisha Aliwa and experienced Finland-based left attacker Mike Chemos from his provisional squad for the upcoming Zonal African Olympic Qualifiers set for December.

Gitau, who was in charge of the national women's team that won gold at the 2015 All Africa Games in Congo Brazzaville, named a fresh-looking team. Kenya Ports Authority right attacker James Ontere is the only experienced player in the 22-man squad that was selected from last weekend's final and ninth leg of the Kenya Volleyball Federation leg in Kapsabet.

Maiyo, who joined Qatari Volleyball champions, Al Rayyan Sports Club early in the year, Aliwa and Mike Chemos who moved from Japan to Finland, have been instrumental in the past national teams.

However, Gitau said he doesn't go for big names, but what he sees.

"I want everybody to understand that I don't go for big names but for what I have seen. Yes, Maiyo and Chemos are talented and professional, but nobody can convince me that they have had an impact on this country," Gitau told FeverPitch.

"To me, they are just but normal players. I don't know their career form because I haven't seen them play and that is why I am not going for hearsay when I have re-confirmed what I scouted.

"If they are professional enough and convince me after seeing them play, then I might consider them but nobody can tell me that they are better players than those we have selected. These are the players I am relying on and I believe they are the best because I have tracked them for a while and I know what they are capable of. It is time to give the youngsters a chance," insisted the former Kenyan international.

Asked why he has retained Ontere, who was part of the old team, Gitau said: "I want Ontere to be a role model to the other players. I talked to the Federation and I explained to the player himself what I expect of him. I have watched him play and I am convinced he will play a vital role in the team."

The team is expected to report to residential camp at the Kasarani Gymnasium on November 2.

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