Volleyball (Mens League B): I am new in this world. Romain Lirot shines with Saint-Jean

How does it feel to start when you haven’t played much this season?

It’s a moment where you have to seize your opportunity. We are never happy to replace a partner who got injured, but we know that all year long we also train for that, to cover either moments of physical decline or injuries. When we have the role of the third man, we train to be ready to come in and reassure the team at that moment.

Do you feel frustrated in this third man role?

No, there’s not much frustration because it’s still my first year as a pro. Already for me, it was great to be able to move up with the first team coming from the training center. It was really a chance to evolve with guys who have great careers while for now, I’m new to the volleyball world. Being able to interact with them daily is a great opportunity, and I knew that at some point, they would need me in the season. I was waiting for the right moment and then, today (Saturday), I had a great game, so I’m really happy.

Is it important to know that the coach trusts the young players?

Yes, Romain had already put me in towards the end of the match in two or three games because Kevin Kaba had some minor physical problems. It allowed me to get a little taste of the game again and get back into it. When it was time to play my first of 4 matches as a starter against Rennes, I was already ready to play again.

Have you always played in the central position?

Yes, I started volleyball late, at 20 years old, and based on my physical qualities, I wanted to challenge myself to play at a high level. I was told that if I wanted to play at the highest level as quickly as possible with my physique, it would probably be in the central position because I still lacked the basics technically. Romain took me at the training center for this position and we have progressed on it.

You have a powerful serve, where does that come from?