🏐 ECVA CHAMPIONSHIP | PLAYER SPOTLIGHT 🏐
🇧🇲 Best Setter – Olivia Gazzard (Bermuda)
A setter's job is all about decisions: reading the block and picking the right spot for the ball in a split second, rally after rally. Olivia did that all tournament and helped lead Bermuda to a big win in the final, playing alongside her sister Natalie. We caught up with her after the awards 👇
❓ Was there a match or rally where everything clicked?
🗣️ "It's very difficult to narrow it down to one moment, but there were a few times when everything just flowed naturally, especially in the final. Our team was very focused, and I was dialed in on putting the ball in areas that gave our hitters the best chance to succeed. I felt confident in my decisions and trusted my hitters to execute when we needed them. As a setter, it's such a great feeling when you're in sync with the whole team. In the final, we put it all together at the right time, which led to a big win for Bermuda."
❓ You and Natalie were sisters long before you were setter and hitter. Can she read a look from you on court the way she would at home?
🗣️ "Being sisters definitely helps. Natalie and I are very close, so sometimes we can communicate with just a look or a quick signal. At the same time, playing together has taught us a different kind of communication on the court. We've learned to trust each other and understand what the other person needs in the moment. Not many people get to share the court with their sibling and win together, so I'm very grateful for the fun and success we shared this tournament."
❓ What does it mean to see two players from the same family and the same program recognized at an ECVA championship?
🗣️ "It means a lot to both of us. We're really proud to represent Bermuda and our Paradise Hitters junior club, especially since we grew up in the same program together. I've always looked up to my sister, and seeing her recognized for all her hard work is very special. She had a great tournament, and so did our whole team. Volleyball is a team sport, and everyone contributed. We're very fortunate to play with such a great group of ladies and learn from everyone around us."
❓ What can this success do for volleyball back home, especially for young girls watching?
🗣️ "I hope it shows young girls in Bermuda that there are opportunities for them in volleyball if they work hard, believe in themselves and work toward a common goal. You don't have to come from a big place to compete and succeed. I'm very grateful for all the support from our coaches, parents, the BVA and our sponsors. Without them, none of this would be possible. I really hope this win encourages younger players to train with a purpose and keep chasing their goals."
Congratulations, Olivia, and to the whole Bermuda team! 👏🇧🇲
#ECVA #Volleyball #BestSetter #TeamBermuda #BVA #SisterPower #NORCECA
