Belgian star outside hitter Sam Deroo has begun chemotherapy after a cancer diagnosis discovered during a routine medical examination, his Russian club Lokomotiv Novosibirsk announced this week.
Deroo, 32, missed Lokomotiv’s recent 3–1 victory over Gorky Nizhny Novgorod, and the team later confirmed his absence was due to the medical finding. The club said his contract remains valid and that he continues to be part of the squad as he starts treatment.
The news has reached well beyond Russia and Belgium. Teammates, coaches, and supporters across the world have sent messages of encouragement. WorldofVolley extended a public wish for Deroo’s full recovery, echoing the sentiment shared widely throughout the global volleyball community. From national federations to international fans, the sport has united in expressing hope and solidarity for the Belgian captain, who has long been admired as a leader and an inspiration.
