Mandeel strengthens Al-Qadsia volleyball squad ahead of new season

Kuwaiti spikes the ball against Egypt during the friendly match.

KUWAIT CITY, Aug 3: Al-Qadsia volleyball team has added another local talent to its squad ahead of the new season after signing Yousef Mandeel from Burgan.

Mandeel, who played for Al-Arabi on loan last season, is considered one of the standout Kuwaiti players in recent years. He is known for his strong defensive presence near the net and his powerful attacking ability.

The “Yellow” is looking to build a competitive squad by bringing in top players as it aims to challenge for titles in the upcoming campaign.

Al-Qadsia has already secured the services of foreign professionals Daouda Yacoubo of Benin and Cole Gillis of the United States. The club has also completed its technical and administrative setup, with Dr. Hussein Al-Qabandi continuing as head of the volleyball department.

Mohammed Al-Damkhi has been appointed as team director. At the same time, Argentine coach Humberto Alejandro will lead the technical staff, assisted by compatriot Diego, with Luciano Jorge taking charge of team statistics.

The previous season’s competitions were suspended in February due to regional developments, and the federation has decided to resume the tournaments in September.

Meanwhile, Kuwait’s U-17 national volleyball team suffered a 3-0 defeat to Egypt in its second friendly match during its training camp in Cairo.

The team is preparing for the Arab Championship in Bahrain, scheduled from August 7 to 17.

The friendly was part of the preparation plan designed by the technical staff, led by Tunisian coach Mohamed Ben Sheikh, which includes four high-level warm-up matches aimed at improving the team’s technical and tactical readiness while increasing cohesion among the players ahead of the tournament.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff