Imagine beach volleyball as a video game; the players are the on-screen characters, but the coach is more akin to the programmer, meticulously crafting the game`s code beforehand. This analogy highlights a significant distinction between indoor volleyball and beach volleyball coaching. To shed light on the often-unseen dedication of these beach mentors, the “Secrets of Coaching Success” series delves into the insights of Europe`s top beach volleyball coaches, exploring their methods and behind-the-scenes efforts.
Aigars Birzulis as an FIVB Development coach in Lithuania (source: volleyballworld.com)
This installment of the series spotlights Aigars Birzulis, a highly respected Latvian beach volleyball coach. His extensive career boasts numerous international medals across senior, junior, and youth categories, notably including an Olympic bronze at London 2012. More recently, Birzulis guided Anastasija Kravcenoka and Tina Graudina to victory at the EuroBeachVolley 2022 women`s continental championship. Below is an excerpt from his interview, continuing from Part 2.
Interview
With the rising prevalence of team-based competitions, such as the Nations Cup, Continental Cup, and national leagues, do you believe the role of a beach volleyball coach will become even more crucial?
“I fully endorse this development; it`s an area we must further cultivate.”
What aspect of beach volleyball coaching do you think remains largely unknown to the general public?
“That`s a difficult question, as much of our work involves internal team dynamics and strategic planning that isn`t publicly visible. Therefore, I don`t have much to elaborate on.”
What do you consider the primary factor behind your coaching achievements?
“Having coached beach volleyball for many years, I believe my core strategy involves identifying opponents` vulnerabilities while simultaneously concealing our team`s weaknesses. This isn`t straightforward, as every team aims for the same, demanding significant effort. Crucially, one must remember that a player is like a diamond, requiring continuous refinement throughout their entire career, regardless of age.”
Aigars Birzulis during time-out
When training a beach volleyball duo, do you prioritize enhancing individual player skills or fostering better team synergy? And what core principle do you generally aim to instill in your athletes?
“I employ a holistic approach, as there`s no single formula or universal `right` or `wrong` method. The key is discovering what functions optimally for both the individual players and the partnership as a whole. I believe a `copy-paste` strategy is ineffective; each team must develop its unique identity.”
Are there any coaches, within beach volleyball or other sports, whom you admire or consider role models?
“Beach volleyball clearly features many exceptional coaches whose success is evident. I consider Jurgen Wagner to be among the best, and Rasmus Jonsson has introduced truly innovative methods. While I could name many other talented coaches, I`ll highlight these two.”
What activities do you engage in to relax and recharge outside of your coaching responsibilities?
“I enjoy fishing, foraging for berries and mushrooms, or simply spending time in nature. Interestingly, cranberries, with their volleyball-like shape, often remind me of the sport, as beach volleyball is always in my thoughts and heart, no matter my location.”
