Coach Dragan the man behind India’s resurgence, says skipper Jerome

A bronze medal rarely feels as valuable as gold but in the India men’s volleyball team’s latest case, it definitely does.

As India returned to the international arena after a year of inactivity — it was away from the scene due to Volleyball Federation of India’s mess — there were question marks over whether the players would be match-sharp at the AVC Cup in Ahmedabad.

But the World No. 42 side let its actions speak by earning a third-place finish in the 11-team event. At the front and centre of India’s resurgence was captain Jerome Vinith. The skipper credited head coach Dragan Mihailovic for instilling belief within the group and making his job easier. “Dragan is the man behind these performances,” Jerome told The Hindu.

“In the past, we had Indian teams with a good mix of experienced and young players, but the understanding was not as good as we have now. He brought unity within the squad. He emphasised that big things could be achieved only when we are ‘one’. Dragan also made it clear that only achievements will lead to recognition,” said the opposite hitter.

For Jerome, ensuring all his teammates were on the same page before and during the tournament gave him the greatest satisfaction.

“I would not term myself a ‘senior player’; I would call myself an ‘experienced player’ (laughs). I know how to lead the team because it is not that difficult to make them play on court. Making them stay together was important,” he added.

Jerome stressed that more international exposure was the need of the hour. “It will help us a lot. Before the AVC Cup, we had practice matches against South Korea and Qatar. After those matches, we knew where we needed to work on. If we continue to get those chances (playing top-quality opposition), we will only get better”.