Player spotlight: Arinze Kelvin Nwachukwu

Player spotlight: Arinze Kelvin Nwachukwu

1. Could you introduce yourself (name, where you are from, and what you do in volleyball)?

Arinze Kelvin Nwachukwu. I, originally, am from Anambra, but was born and raised in Jos. I am an opposite player.

2. ⁠How did you first get into volleyball?

While I was working in a shoe store, a coach noticed my height and invited me to join basketball practice. The basketball court was adjacent to the volleyball court, and based on what I saw, I preferred volleyball. So, I decided to join the volleyball practice instead and never looked back.

3. ⁠Was there someone who made you fall in love with the game (a coach, a teammate, anyone)?

All my mentors, coaches, and teammates have been a source of inspiration and motivation for me. I can't single out just one individual, as everyone I've encountered on my journey has imparted valuable lessons, both positive and negative, that have shaped me into the person and player I am today.

4. ⁠What did your family think when you got serious about volleyball?

They were somewhat surprised. Coming from a football-oriented family, volleyball wasn't a major focus in our home. However, over time, my entire family grew to love volleyball and are now enthusiastic fans.

5. ⁠What is the proudest moment of your volleyball journey so far?

From my personal point of view, winning the Turkish championship and being the top scorer in the Italian A League twice. It is a rare achievement that brings me great joy.

6. ⁠What is the hardest thing you have gone through in volleyball, and how did you get through it?

Being born in Nigeria. It is quite challenging to gain recognition and make it internationally as a professional. I was very persistent and determined, and joined Fenerbahçe, a major club, as my first professional team. I believe that was the primary challenge, just coming into the volleyball scene.

7. ⁠Was there ever a moment where you almost quit? What kept you going?

No, quitting is not an option for me. I am a stubborn person, and I've never thought about abandoning my dreams.

8. ⁠What has volleyball taught you about life that nothing else could have?

Persistence ensures that all hard work is followed up with reward. And because I have played in more than seven countries, it has taught me about different cultures and different people. It has made me more observant of the world around me.

9. ⁠What do you love most about volleyball? The thing no other sport gives you.

That every point counts, you have to play until the last point. I like that it is not a time-based game but rather point-based. So you can turn the game around at any given time.

11. ⁠Where do you see yourself in volleyball five years from now?

Still going strong, playing and competing in the biggest world leagues, winning trophies.

13. ⁠If you could say one thing to a young Nigerian who is just discovering volleyball right now, what would it be?

Just keep going, be persistent, watch the game, analyze it, try it yourself, and repeat the process again and again: watch, analyze, and try it yourself. Do it so many times that you can do it in your sleep. Who should VolleyVarse spotlight next? Let us know in the comments.

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