Wednesday, 4 Dec 2024

Men’s Sitting Team Accolades Go to Green, Smith

The U.S. Men’s Sitting Team had a remarkable year in 2016, with two standout players earning well-deserved recognition. Roderick Green, a seasoned veteran, was named the USA Volleyball Male Sitting Player of the Year, while Josh Smith, a promising rookie, was named the team’s Most Improved Player.

Roderick Green: A Veteran Leader

At 37 years old, Roderick Green showcased his exceptional skills as a middle blocker at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. He emerged as the Men’s Sitting Team’s leading scorer, tallying an impressive 31 points from 22 kills, eight blocks, and one ace in four matches. Green’s standout performance came in a thrilling five-set match against Germany, where he contributed 17 points.

Green’s experience and leadership were invaluable to the team. Having previously competed in the Paralympic Games in track and field, he brought a level of focus and accountability that inspired his teammates. His dedication to maintaining a healthy diet and ensuring his teammates followed suit demonstrated his commitment to the team’s success.

Josh Smith: A Rising Star

Josh Smith, at the age of 29, made his mark on the U.S. Men’s Sitting Team after joining in 2015. Recognized by coach Greg Walker at the 2014 Marine Corps Trials, Smith quickly flourished as a resident athlete at the University of Central Oklahoma. Despite his limited previous experience in volleyball, Smith exhibited rapid improvement and an innate ability to read the game.

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Primarily playing as a substitute in Rio, Smith demonstrated his versatility as an opposite and showcased his setting skills in practice. His consistency and strategic understanding of the game were evident, earning him 10 points throughout the tournament. With further experience and opportunities, Smith’s potential to contribute to the team’s success is promising.

Looking Ahead

While the U.S. Men’s Sitting Team faced challenges in Rio, finishing the season winless, the experience served as a wake-up call for the team. The lessons learned from the Paralympics have ignited a fire within the players, motivating them to strive for improvement and come back stronger in future competitions. Coach Greg Walker is optimistic about the team’s future, especially with emerging talents like Josh Smith.

The Men’s Sitting Team’s dedication and commitment are evident. Their determination to apply the lessons learned from Rio to their training and future matches will undoubtedly lead to improved performances. With the continued support and development of their players, the U.S. Men’s Sitting Team has the potential to become a formidable force in international sitting volleyball.

FAQs

Q: How did Roderick Green contribute to the U.S. Men’s Sitting Team in 2016?

A: Roderick Green, a veteran middle blocker, emerged as the team’s leading scorer at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. His outstanding performance, particularly in a thrilling match against Germany, showcased his skills as a player and his leadership off the court.

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Q: What makes Josh Smith a promising player for the U.S. Men’s Sitting Team?

A: Despite his limited previous experience in volleyball, Josh Smith’s rapid improvement and ability to read the game have made him a rising star. His versatility as an opposite and his setting skills have caught the attention of coach Greg Walker, who sees great potential in Smith’s future contributions to the team.

Conclusion

The U.S. Men’s Sitting Team had a year of growth and achievement in 2016, with Roderick Green and Josh Smith standing out as exceptional players. Their performances demonstrate the team’s dedication to excellence and their commitment to success. With their continued development and the support of their coaching staff, the U.S. Men’s Sitting Team is poised to make significant strides in the world of sitting volleyball. To learn more about the team and their journey, visit Alpinetgheep.