NEW YEAR’S INTERVIEW: Sharone Vernon-Evans for WoV – “If you don’t see a path for you, make your own”

The Canadian opposite is just 21-year old and he has a very successful moments in his career so far. We took the opportunity to ask him about some volleyball topics.

Not many players from North America turn to professional volleyball before getting some experience in college volleyball first. Why did you decide to make a transition to pro volleyball in 2017 when you were only 18 years old?

“From a young age, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I worked hard, sacrificed and dedicated everything to playing professionally – so I went straight ahead and took advantage of the opportunities I earned.”

Was this transition difficult for you and what were some major setbacks you had to face?

“I was young, so being away from my family was definitely a set back. But it made me grow and gain maturity.”

You started to play professional volleyball in one of the strongest leagues in the world, the Polish league. What were the main reasons for choosing this competition, and more specifically Warszawa, as your first pro volleyball destination?

“It had a great team and atmosphere, and the team was led by a great coach – Stephan Antiga!”

This summer, you made even a bigger step by joining Ravenna and competing in, probably, the most attractive league in the world – the Italian league. Are you pleased with your performance, so far?

“I always aim to perform to the best of my ability, which means I’m always training to the best of my ability. I’m happy to see how far I’ve come in so many years and even happier about my competitive level!”

Canada National Team is expecting a highly important tournament in January which is the last chance for booking a ticket to the Tokyo Olympics – NORCECA Qualifier. How do you asses Canada’s chances of winning it?

“Just like every other team, I think we’ll have to work harder than we’ve ever worked to clinch a spot in the Olympics. Every team will come out with their best and we’ll just have to work above that.”

How much would participating at the Olympics next year mean to you personally but also to Canadian volleyball?

“No words could explain how much it’d mean to me to compete at the Olympics. I love everything about what I do, but playing in the Olympics makes it 10x more worthwhile!”

What are your general goals in volleyball?

“Besides the Olympics, I’m currently living my dreams (of playing professionally). Other than that, I’d love to coach someday!”

The festive season is coming. How much time will you have to relax and have you already decided how and where will you spend Christmas and New Year’s Eve?

“I haven’t decided any of that yet, but if I’m lucky it will be with family and loved ones.”

What would be your message for all young volleyball players that are trying to reach the world of professionals?

“Don’t let anybody guide you down a path you don’t see for yourself. And if you don’t see a path for you, make your own!”

Check out more interviews.

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