Interview: China coach Heynen urges patience in developing male volleyballers

by Li Linhai

GUANGZHOU, Nov. 8 (Xinhua) -- China's national volleyball head coach Vital Heynen has stressed the difference between the development of male and female players.

Heynen, who led Poland to the 2018 World Championship title, is the second overseas head coach of China's men's volleyball team. The Belgian watched a men's U20 group match at China's 15th National Games at Guangzhou Sport University on Friday.

"Women can play very well between the ages of 17 and 19. China excels at developing players up to the age of 19. Women are ready at 19, and they have achieved good results," he told Xinhua after the match, pointing out the difference for men's volleyball.

"There isn't a single men's national team in the world whose strongest players are in the 19-20 age bracket. One must recognize that it's a different sport system."

Heynen said the best age for men's volleyball players is over 30, but added that there are few players in that age bracket in China.

"In China, players often stop playing or choose to retire too early. Some excellent players leave the sport before reaching their peak," he said.

"For males, we need to have the patience to develop them further. We need to create a different development system. But currently, we are using the same method for both, and this situation needs to change," the coach continued. "We must spend a longer time growing together with the men's volleyball players."

Discussing his main goal during his stay in Guangzhou, Heynen said, "This is my first time watching the National Games in China. It's a completely new experience for me. I want to see how young players, who might one day be part of the national team, handle pressure on the court."

"I always like to see young players playing with smiles," he added. "Sometimes I tell players to smile more. I like players to have fun and show emotion."

Heynen added that the Games serve as an important tournament for developing Chinese volleyballers. "Players must learn to compete under pressure, and major events like the National Games can help athletes perform well when it counts," he concluded. Enditem