GUANGZHOU, Nov.8 (Xinhua) – China‘s men’s national volleyball head coach Vital Heynen is advocating for a revised development system tailored to the longer maturation curve of male players, contrasting it with the success China has seen in rapidly developing female volleyball talent.
Heynen, who previously led Poland to the 2018 World Championship title and is the second overseas head coach for the Chinese men’s team, made the comments while observing a men’s U20 group match at the 15th National games in Guangzhou 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,” Heynen told xinhua. He emphasized that this timeline differs significantly for men. “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 noted the peak age for men’s volleyball players is typically over 30, but lamented a lack of players in that age bracket within China, attributing it to early retirement or players leaving the sport before reaching their full potential.
“In China, players often stop playing or choose to retire too early.Some excellent players leave the sport before reaching their peak,” he saeid. “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. We must spend a longer time growing together with the men’s volleyball players.”
Currently in Guangzhou to observe the National Games, Heynen is evaluating young players who may one day compete on the national team, paying particular attention to their ability to perform under pressure and maintain a positive attitude. “I always like to see young players playing with smiles,” he said. “Sometimes I tell players to smile more. I like players to have fun and show emotion.” He views the Games as a crucial proving ground for developing Chinese volleyballers, helping them learn to compete effectively when it matters most.