🏐 ECVA CHAMPIONSHIP – TORTOLA, BVI 🇻🇬
Best Libero: Cailey Longworth 🇧🇲
She doesn't make the big kills, but she keeps the ball off the floor when it matters most. We caught up with Bermuda's Cailey Longworth, Best Libero at the last ECVA tournament in Tortola.
Q: What went through your mind when you found out you'd won the award?
A: "I was incredibly honoured. To be recognised as the 'best' at something is a huge achievement, especially knowing how many talented liberos I competed against. As a libero, I may not be the player making the big kills or scoring the points, but I can make sure the ball stays off the floor when it matters most. To have that contribution recognised was really special to me."
Q: How did you get started in volleyball, and what drew you to the libero position?
A: "Volleyball has always been part of my life. My older cousin, Amber Lopes, also played for Bermuda, and I grew up watching her school trainings, grabbing a ball and copying their drills. I officially started with the Bermuda Volleyball Association in 2016. Becoming a libero wasn't necessarily my choice. My height probably had more of a say than I did! But my coaches saw something in me that I didn't yet see in myself, and I'm very grateful for that."
Q: How has your game developed over the years?
A: "After 10 years in the position, the biggest development has been my mindset. The libero is supposed to be the 'best passer,' and that comes with pressure. My teammates and coaches have never allowed me to believe I wasn't capable of meeting that standard. They've helped me realise what I'm capable of achieving."
Q: What did preparation look like heading into Tortola?
A: "A lot of us have played together for several years, so there was a strong sense of familiarity. Our preparation was about building on that chemistry, sharpening our skills and being ready to compete as a unit."
Q: What's next, and what's your message to young players in Bermuda?
A: "Next year is a big one for Bermuda volleyball: the Final Four and the Island Games in the Faroe Islands. To the next generation: anything is possible, but the support of the people around you is so important. Build those connections, support one another and enjoy the little moments just as much as the big ones. Volleyball can teach you so much beyond the game. Just be open to embracing every part of the journey."
👏 Congratulations, Cailey, on a well-deserved award!
#ECVA #Volleyball #TeamBermuda #BestLibero #CaileyLongworth #Tortola #BVI #CaribbeanVolleyball #WomenInSport
