The new technical adviser of Nigeria’s national volleyball teams, Ryan Masajedi has experessed delight with the level at which the sport has developed in the country and promised to contribute the best of his ability in taking it higher, by getting invvolved in various aspects of the game.
Sports247 reports that Masajedi also pledged to work closely with coaches at the grassroots and youth development levels, in order to help strengthen the country’s player discovery and grooming system, while building on progress already achieved by Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF).
The Japanese tactician gave the promise and assurances shortly after he was formally unveiled by the NVBF at Package B of Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, where he also described his appointment as an opportunity to contribute more in a project that has already produced encouraging results.
While hailing Nigeria’s strides so far at both junior and senior levels, Masejedi also praised the country’s indigenous coaches for nurturing players who have gone on to excel abroad, stressing that his role is not to replace what is being done already but to strengthen it.
The gaffer added, “I am excited about the development of volleyball in Nigeria and what we can achieve together. I am here to be part of this strength and help carry it forward. It is really a pleasure to be part of this development project.
“I am happy to be here and to work with these great coaches. I believe Nigeria has many good coaches, and that is evident in the results they have achieved and the quality of players they have produced.”
Masajedi, who started work immediately with the female national team, promised to quickly key into the NVBF’s programmes, as the federation intensifies preparations for upcoming continental championships, while also facing its long-term volleyball development startegies.
Sports247 gathered further that Masajedi will serve on an initial 12-month contract, a significant departure from the standard three-month technical support usually provided by Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) to countries preparing for major competitions.
Under the agreement, the FIVB will pay the coach’s monthly allowance and cover all his international travel expenses throughout the duration of his assignment, while the NVBF would provide accommodation and cater for any additional travel needs during his stay in Nigeria.
