Rebuilding Senior Men’s Volleyball Team Is A Collective Responsibility – Coach Oladipupo
By Andrew Abah, Abuja
Newly appointed Head Coach of the Nigerian senior men’s volleyball team, Taiwo Oladipupo, has expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) board, led by Engr. Musa Nimrod, for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the national team.
Oladipupo made the remarks during an interview at the ongoing Volleyball Premier League competition taking place at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
He described his appointment as a great honour and pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him by the Federation.
According to the coach, the assignment is demanding, but his many years of experience in volleyball have adequately prepared him for the task of building a formidable national team capable of competing on the international stage.
Oladipupo noted that working with the current crop of senior men’s players would be relatively smooth because of his long-standing relationship with many of them. Oladipupo explained that the players understand his philosophy and expectations, while he is equally familiar with their strengths and capabilities.
The coach expressed confidence that managing players both within and outside the country would not pose any major challenge, adding that with the right support and continuity, Nigeria has the potential to emerge as a strong force in global volleyball competitions.
Oladipupo further stated that countries such as Brazil rose from modest beginnings to become volleyball powerhouse, stressing that Nigeria can follow a similar path.
“I know I have a huge responsibility to take the national team to the zenith but it must be a collective responsibility with my assistants, having spent decades in the game. I truly know what to do to make the difference. I can assure you that volleyball fans will have a lot to cheer as we embark on rebuilding the senior team. My selection will be on merit,” said Oladipupo.
He also thanked the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for consistently releasing him whenever he is called upon for national assignment, expressing optimism that Nigeria could eventually qualify for the Olympic Games if the current development efforts in the sport are sustained.
