Lucarelli
The team was formed from the squad that took part in the World Junior Championship in 2011. At that time, the players did not perform to expectations and finished in fifth place. However, since then they have worked hard and are now showing how they have matured.
Lucarelli is seen as a great hope. In 2012, the young wing spiker was taken by senior team coach Bernardo Rezende to participate in team workouts during the London Olympics. Earlier this year, after a fantastic performance in the Super League, he was again summoned, but this time as a top player.
Despite being the youngest player on the team, Lucarelli did not disappoint. Prior to the Under 23 World Championship, Brazil finished runners-up in the World League and then triumphed in the South American Championship with Lucarelli named best wing spiker in both competitions. In addition to his solid performances, Lucarelli showed maturity and leadership on the court.
“The best part is that we won in Brazil and everyone was watching us,” Lucarelli said. “I am very happy. The MVP award is less important. This victory was for everyone – the coaching staff that helped a lot, the physical therapy that helped me recover fast, all the players, my parents who always support me and the fans.”
Three other players who stood out in the Under 23 World Championship were also part of the squad that took part in the World Junior Championship in 2011.
Voted the best middle blocker, the tall and talented Matheus came from the same club – St. Bernard – that was coached by Rubens, the coach of the Under 23 team. Matheus has been a revelation in the current season of the Super League.
Libero Kachel has been a starter at all levels and is touted as one of the successors to Sergio Dutra in the senior team. He, too, was voted the best in his position in the Under 23 tournament.
Finally, middle blocker Octavius, had opportunities in the Superliga with Vivo/ Minas and promises to be one of the star players on his team in this season’s Superleague.
Among those who did not play in the World Junior tournament in 2011 was opposite Rafael, who impressed everyone in the Under 23 tournament. The player was the top scorer in five of seven games in the tournament. At his club Funvic/ Taubaté, he will have the chance to develop alongside Olympic champion Giba.
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Check out the WoV Community profile Ricardo Lucarelli
