Pulses spike for the Champions Cup

SOUTH Africa’s top club teams are ready to put on a show at the 2017 Volleyball South Africa (VSA) Champions Cup which gets under way in Durban in just two weeks’ time.

VSA’S premier club competition traditionally takes place annually in September but, despite it being moved to the start of the season this year, volleyball fanatics can expect big power-hitting and pulsating rallies at the UKZN Westville Sports Centre.

Tongaat-based Liberte, who stunned Gauteng’s Quantum in last year’s final, are back to defend their crown. Their coach, Jason Govender is looking forward to the competition but noted the lack of preparation time before the showcase. KZN based sides have only had three provincial tournaments to test their combinations since the season commenced in February.

“We lost a few players so we needed more time, but still, we have to focus on playing good volleyball,” he said.

While they are defending champions, Govender says he is not putting much pressure on his charges to retain their title.

“We’re still rebuilding our team and that takes time. Liberte will head into the tournament with strong motivation and belief. We hope the team hits form at the right time,” he said.

Durban University of Technology, who finished third last year, enjoying good early season form, will be among the eight KZN men’s teams in the draw. Tertiary heavyweights, University of the Western Cape and the University of Johannesburg return, hungry to reclaim the title of the nation’s number one club side. President of KZN Volleyball, Deva Moodliar, is confident that local clubs will make the most of familiar playing conditions.

“I think we are in for another close competition. Teams have not had many months to prepare but the Champions Cup always brings out the best in players,” he said.

Moodliar, who heads the local organising committee, confirmed that they were ready to stage a successful tournament.

“The venue is booked, equipment and medical plans are in place. Teams confirmed their entry nice and early this year. We have hosted it a good few times in recent years so we’re ready,” he said.