10-MAIO-2012
ANDRÉ LOPES: "IT IS
VERY GOOD TO PARTICIPATE"

André Lopes has a high international level in volleyball, both at the service of the French Stade Poitevin Volley-Ball Pro, as well as representing the Men's National Team... But it was not easy to reach the top, as is still fresh in memory:
"I remember when I was for three years working with the national team and was never called to play but I had a great desire to play. Now, the youngers will have the opportunity to play at the highest level and that will be beneficial to the sport because new athletes are needed for the future. Regardless of what the group is in the World League, our opponents will always be
strong. But the big players show up in big moments. I distinctly remember the first match I played - it was a friendly match against Egypt, but of course I would have prefered my first official match to be against Bulgaria, Argentina or Germany. I do not know if everyone has this opinion, but I think it's always an extra motivation to face big teams."

João Coelho, the Libero of SL Benfica, was first called to the Men's National Team:
"It's great to be in this working group. I have always been available, the opportunity has now arisen and I can only be satisfied. I see the call to the National Team as a recognition of my work, because it means that people believe in my work. We are all here to help grow the national volleyball team and, in whatever circumstances. It is a young group and our pool in the World League is very difficult, but we are here to give our best and do a quality job. The teams from Argentina, Bulgaria and Germany are very advanced and have very strong players, but we must believe in our value."