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| courtesy of VAS |
Teddy Theo Zi Hao, at 21 years old, is the current team captain of the Singapore Men's National Volleyball Team. The Mechanical Engineering student of National University of Singapore (NUS) is in Manila with the entire team for a series of games in preparation to the 30th SEA Games which will be held in December.
In an exclusive interview, Teddy expresses his sentiments as a top student-athlete from Singapore. Here are his revelations.
1. When did you start playing volleyball?
I started playing in primary school at eight years old. In Singapore, students are required to have a co-curricular activity. I got into volleyball because I could receive the ball well.
2. How did you become a part of the national team?
A coach saw me playing at a local tournament.
3. What do you find difficult in being a student-athlete?
In Singapore, studies come first. We spend 8-10 hours in school. After that, we train for 3 hours. It is hard to do well in school and training.
4. How do you find Coach Dennis Janzen who is a highly successful American volleyball coach?
He is amazing. He was able to get the young players to join the team. To see volleyball from an American coach is an eye-opener for the team.
5. What are your expectations for the 30th SEA Games in Manila?
As of now, our goal is to get exposure and experience as much as possible. Our team is very young. I am the oldest at 21. As much as we want a podium finish in this year's SEA Games, our goal is to do well 2-3 years from now.
6. What does the team need right now for it to do well in all its tournaments?
We definitely need exposure overseas. We must compete with foreign teams to improve our game. Even if we lose, we learn. And that is what is important for us right now.
7. Do you have plans of becoming a professional volleyball player?
If the opportunity is there, I will definitely take it. But as of now, it is all about studies and playing for Singapore.
8. What advice can you give young kids who dream of becoming a volleyball player like you and represent their country?
I think it is important to be committed, focused and humble. Listen to the advice of people who know the sport so you can improve your game.
