Imagine beach volleyball as a computer game; the players are the on-screen characters, but the coach isn`t the one playing in real-time. Instead, they`re the programmer, meticulously crafting the underlying code before the match even begins. This highlights a crucial distinction between indoor and beach volleyball coaching. To offer fans a deeper insight into the dedicated, often unsung efforts of these mentors in the sand, my “Secrets of Coaching Success” series features prominent European beach volleyball coaches, delving into their strategies and experiences.
This sixth installment of the series shines a spotlight on Aigars Birzulis, a distinguished Latvian beach volleyball coach. His extensive career boasts numerous international medals across senior, junior, and youth categories, including an Olympic bronze at London 2012. More recently, he guided Anastasija Kravcenoka and Tina Graudina to claim the women`s continental championship at EuroBeachVolley 2022. Below is the complete interview with Coach Birzulis.
Interview
What inspired your journey into beach volleyball coaching? Could you elaborate on the key differences in coaching roles between indoor volleyball and beach volleyball?
“My coaching career began in the early 1990s, leading Latvian youth national teams for many years. We incorporated beach volleyball into our summer training routines to maintain peak physical condition. A pivotal moment came in 1997, during the inaugural junior European Championship held in Dubulti, Latvia, where our male teams secured first and third places. This marked my formal entry into beach volleyball coaching. While I once viewed beach volleyball merely as an extension of indoor volleyball, my perspective has evolved. The primary distinction lies in player motivation and team dynamics; in indoor volleyball, substitutions are common, but in beach volleyball, the two players must demonstrate exceptional mental and physical resilience without that option.”
Your recent triumph at EuroBeachVolley with Tina and Anastasija was a significant achievement. Could you share your feelings and reflections from that momentous occasion?
“I was deeply honored when the Latvian federation entrusted me with coaching our teams for both the Nations Cup and the European Championship, and I`m very grateful for that opportunity. At the time, Tina and Anastasija were without a coach, and they specifically requested my guidance for the European Championship. Having previously coached them during their junior careers, I had a strong rapport and understanding of their play, which alleviated any pressure. This familiarity allowed us to work cohesively and achieve an excellent outcome.”
Often, a beach volleyball coach works directly for the duo they train. How does this unique employer-employee dynamic influence the psychological aspect of the coach-player relationship?
“A strong, positive relationship between the coach and players is fundamental; without it, achieving success is nearly impossible. It`s essential to understand each player not just as an athlete but as an individual, and to recognize their role within the team dynamic. Cultivating excellent relationships among all team members — from players to coach and vice versa — is paramount.”
Unlike indoor volleyball, direct coaching during beach volleyball matches is typically prohibited. What is the rationale behind this regulation, and would you advocate for its modification?
“Beach volleyball has adopted several organizational aspects from tennis, with mixed results. For instance, the prize money structure is one such parallel. I believe that to truly elevate the spectator experience and highlight the sport`s strategic depth, coaches should be permitted to interact with players during matches. A coach`s in-game interventions can significantly alter dynamics and enhance the quality of play, a principle demonstrated effectively during events like the Nations Cup and youth championships.”
Due to this restriction, beach volleyball coaches rarely receive media attention and often remain unfamiliar to the general public. Do you consider this beneficial or detrimental to the sport`s visibility and growth?
“I firmly believe this is detrimental and requires reconsideration. It hinders the sport`s broader appeal. In any athletic endeavor, the commitment of time, effort, and passion extends beyond the athletes to include the coaches. They are integral to the team`s success, and at times, coaches exhibit an even greater fervor than their players.”
The recent CEV Nations Cup, where you coached the Latvian women`s national team, presented a unique competitive environment. Could you recount your experiences from that tournament?
“Firstly, I must express immense gratitude to the Austrian organizers for orchestrating such an exceptional event, complemented by an enthusiastic crowd. Austria, notably since the Klagenfurt tournaments, has consistently featured outstanding DJs who masterfully cultivate an incredible ambiance. This liberating atmosphere is crucial, as it empowers every player and coach to perform at their peak, creating a scenario where everyone feels victorious.”
