Thursday, 9 May 2024

USAV Names Men’s Roster for Tokyo Olympic Games

USA Volleyball is thrilled to announce the 12-player men’s team that will represent the United States at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. This roster, pending approval from the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, features a mix of experienced players and talented newcomers ready to compete on the global stage.

A Strong Lineup for the Olympics

Eight members of the 2016 squad that won the bronze medal in Rio de Janeiro will be returning to represent Team USA in Tokyo. Among them are opposite/outside hitter Matt Anderson and middle blocker David Smith, who will be making their third Olympic appearances. Also returning are setters Micah Christenson and Kawika Shoji, middle blocker Max Holt, outside hitters Thomas Jaeschke and Taylor Sander, and libero Erik Shoji.

Joining them are four athletes set to make their Olympic debuts. Opposite Kyle Ensing, outside hitters T.J. DeFalco and Garrett Muagututia, and middle blocker Mitch Stahl will bring their skills and determination to the team.

A Robust Bench

The eight Olympic alternates, who will provide valuable support and be ready to step in when needed, are middle blockers Taylor Averill and Jeff Jendryk, opposites Ben Patch and Kyle Russell, outside hitters Aaron Russell and Brenden Sander, setter Josh Tuaniga, and libero Dustin Watten.

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Diverse Skills and Experience

The players selected for the team bring a wide range of skills and experience. At 36 years old, David Smith is the oldest player on the roster, while Kyle Ensing and T.J. DeFalco, both 24, are the youngest. The average age of the team is 29.9, creating a balanced blend of seasoned veterans and promising talent.

The Coach’s Perspective

U.S. Men’s Head Coach John Speraw, who has been leading the team since 2013, expressed his excitement about the selected lineup. He highlighted the challenging decisions that had to be made due to the team’s depth and the high level of performance during the Volleyball Nations League. Speraw emphasized the importance of not only individual skills but also the players’ contributions as teammates and competitors.

Assistant coaches Brian Thornton, Matt Fuerbringer, and Mike Wall, along with Head Coach Speraw, bring their extensive knowledge and experience to the team, ensuring comprehensive support for the players.

Preparing for Tokyo

Before heading to Japan, the team will briefly return to its training center in Anaheim. They will then proceed to the Japanese city of Mishima, where they will train and play two matches against Japan’s men’s team to refine their strategies and familiarize themselves with the playing conditions.

The Journey to the Olympics

The 2020 Olympic Games, postponed for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will commence on July 23 with the Opening Ceremony. The men’s volleyball tournament will begin the following day, on July 24.

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FAQs

  1. What is the average age of the U.S. Men’s Olympic team for Tokyo 2020?
    The average age of the team is 29.9, ensuring a balanced mix of experience and energy.

  2. Who are the alternates for the U.S. Men’s Olympic team?
    The eight alternates are Taylor Averill, Jeff Jendryk, Ben Patch, Kyle Russell, Aaron Russell, Brenden Sander, Josh Tuaniga, and Dustin Watten.

  3. Who is the head coach of the U.S. Men’s Olympic team?
    John Speraw has been serving as the head coach since 2013 and brings extensive experience to the team.

Conclusion

The selection of the U.S. Men’s Olympic team for Tokyo 2020 showcases the depth of talent and commitment within the American volleyball community. With a blend of experienced players and exciting newcomers, the team is ready to compete at the highest level. We look forward to seeing them represent the United States with passion and determination on the Olympic stage.

For more information about the U.S. Men’s Volleyball Team and their journey to the Olympic Games, please visit Alpinetgheep.