Sport-Tanzania - Tanzania Mainland's Jeshi Stars and Mafunzo of Zanzibar are among six teams that have so far confirmed their participation in this year's Union volleyball league scheduled for next month in Tanga. Tanzania Amateur Volleyball Association (TAVA) secretary general, George John said yesterday that the league would take place at the Mkwakwani Indoor Stadium from May 12 to 15. "We've set aside handsome prizes for the winners so as to make this year's league more exciting and competitive than the previous events," John said. But he fell short of revealing the awards.

The TAVA official said the four-day league would involve men and women's teams, and that preparations for the event were on course.

"I am optimistic this year's league will be one of the best volleyball events we have ever organised," he said.

John named defending champions Magereza and Zanzibar's Shangani as the other teams that have also registered for the league. The two teams will also field men and women's sides in the event.

He said JKT, Mzinga, Ushirika Moshi, Sanya Stars and Arusha Stars have shown interest to compete in the event but have yet to confirm.

He said the door was still open to other teams wishing to compete in the league."April 30 is the deadline for teams to confirm their participation," he said.He also appealed to institutions, individuals and well-wishers for financial support, saying they need at least Sh8million to make the league a success.

Majuto Omary

The Citizen/04/04/2011