Rwanda Revenue Authority Women’s Volleyball Club (RRA WVC) has been a strong contender in the national league this season, going unbeaten in the first nine rounds. However, their form has taken a harsh turn since the injury of their key player, Jenifer Tembo, in Round 8.
Following her return after injury, RRA suffered their first defeat of the season in Round 10 against APR WVC. Then, on Friday, they lost again, this time to Police WVC, a result that officially ended their hopes of finishing first in the regular season. This quick fall in performance raises a crucial question: Was Tembo the main force driving RRA’s success?
Jenifer Tembo’s role in the team is vital, particularly in controlling the game and providing precise passes that set up attacks. Her ability to distribute the ball efficiently and make quick decisions gave RRA a strong advantage over opponents. Before her injury, RRA won every match, showing the impact of her presence on the court. However, since she has been sidelined, the team has struggled against top opponents, suffering two losses without considering the poor performance they had in Heroes Tournament.
The defeats against APR WVC and Police WVC suggest that RRA has yet to find a solid replacement for Tembo’s influence. While volleyball is a team sport, the importance of a skilled passer cannot be overlooked. Without her full potential, the team’s coordination and offensive execution have visibly weakened. If RRA does not adjust quickly, they might find it even harder to compete in the upcoming playoffs matches.
RRA WVC’s recent struggles make it clear that Jenifer Tembo is a key player in their success. Her passing ability and game management plays a significant role in keeping the team unbeaten earlier in the season. Now, with two losses , RRA must find a way to survive or risk falling further behind in the championship race. The coming matches will test whether they can recover or if Tembo’s unfit will continue to cost them.
