The first round of the 2022 Men's World Volleyball Championship was held on the 30th in Slovenia and Poland. In Group C, the two championship favorites Poland, ranked No. 1 in the world, and the United States, ranked No. 6, clashed early on. Poland, which had the advantage of being at home, won 3-1 (23-25, 25-21, 25-19, 25-21) and advanced to the final tournament in first place with 3 wins and 0 losses. The defeated United States will advance to the final tournament in second place with 2 wins and 1 loss.
This time, we bring you comments from Aaron Russell, a member of the American team that was sadly defeated, and who will play for the JT Thunders Hiroshima next season.
-How did you like today's game?
Poland played very well. They put pressure on us with their serves, so it was very difficult to get side-outs. I think defense has always been a challenge for us, but it's very difficult for any team to play Poland in Poland in the first place.
-What was the difference with Poland?
The serve. The serve was very good. I don't know the exact data, but I think the opponent's side-out was also very good. Anyway, we'll find out who our next opponent is tomorrow, so I'd like to see which team we'll face.
- Regarding your transfer to JT Thunders Hiroshima, when did you decide to transfer?
It's February of this year.
-Have you always been interested in playing in Japan's V League?
Yes. I always enjoyed playing in Japan when I had a match, and I played in Japan for the first time at the 2015 World Cup and then the Grand Champions. I was always very impressed by the Japanese people and the fans. They always cheer me on, and I get a lot of messages when I sign autographs after the match. I'm very grateful for that support, and I can't wait to go and play in Japan. Right now, I'm thinking about the World Championships, but the time will come.
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