In a significant move to elevate the sport's standards, the Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) has engaged American coach Eric Alan to guide its national team. The development aims at a comprehensive overhaul of player training with the explicit goal of securing qualification for the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games.
Strategic Meeting Sets Ambitious Goals
The initiative was set in motion during a meeting in Sialkot between the American volleyball coach, Eric Alan, and PVF Chairman Chaudhry Muhammad Yaqoob. PVF President Sohail Khawar Mir outlined the ambitious vision following the discussions. He emphasized that Coach Alan's expertise will be instrumental in transforming the team's capabilities across all critical domains of modern volleyball.
Comprehensive Training Overhaul Planned
The collaboration with the American coach is designed to bring a scientific and professional approach to training. President Mir detailed that the focus will be on a multi-faceted improvement program. This includes enhancing physical fitness, strength, speed, and agility to match international standards.
On the technical front, every core skill—from pass, set, and spike to block and defense—will be refined. Equally important will be the development of mental toughness, strategic understanding, and teamwork. The training regimen will also prioritize proper warm-up protocols, specialized strength training, and intensive practice sessions simulating real-game situations.
Players Appeal for Government Patronage
On the same occasion, a group of current and former national volleyball stars, including Zaman Khan, Mazhar Farid, and Tanveer Rathore, made a direct appeal to the country's leadership. They urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to extend official government-level sponsorship to the national volleyball team.
The players argued that such state-backed support is crucial for providing the resources and stability needed for long-term training programs. Their ultimate hope is that with sustained investment, the players will get the opportunity to hoist the national flag on the prestigious Olympic stage.
Roadmap to Olympic Glory
The engagement of an international expert like Eric Alan signals a proactive shift in the Pakistan Volleyball Federation's strategy. By targeting the 2028 and 2032 Olympics, the federation is setting a clear, long-term objective. The plan is not just to participate but to build a team capable of competing with the world's best through systematic, world-class training.
This partnership represents a pivotal step for Pakistani volleyball, merging foreign expertise with local talent in a concerted push for international recognition and success.
