With the World Championship in Uzbekistan approaching, national coach Mieke Moyaert reflects on the intense preparation period of the Young Red Dragons U19. This global tournament is not only a sporting challenge, but also a unique opportunity for this young generation to grow as a team and as individual players.

According to Moyaert, the preparation went well overall. At the end of June, the team embarked on a solid build-up process, including several high-level friendly matches. They played twice in France against the reigning European champions in this age group, and also faced Brazil and the Netherlands. “The level just kept getting better,” says Moyaert. “The players improved, and we were able to work effectively on our game principles and fine-tune where necessary.”

The training sessions were intense and well-structured, with specific attention to automatisms in play, reception stability and increased central involvement. A lot of work was also done on basic skills such as setting up a clean block and responding properly in out-of-system situations. “We’ve tried to improve on all fronts,” Moyaert adds.

One major focus was reception. It had to become more stable, both against classic float serves and jump floats. While this was not a weak point, the staff still saw room for improvement. Offensively, progress was made as well. “We integrated our pipe attack more and trained different variations for typical match scenarios. In blocking, we continued to fine-tune, especially with regard to the 3-man block.”

The biggest step forward, according to Moyaert, came in team organisation. The structure on court – both in block-defence and in coverage – was taken to a higher level. “That’s something other coaches or managers often point out during tournaments: that we’re a well-organised team, with clear agreements and strong communication on court.”

What characterises this team most, according to Moyaert, is their fighting spirit. “They’re extremely competitive players with a strong sense of responsibility. They support each other both on and off the court. They’re disciplined, eager to learn, and they continue to grow thanks to that mentality. We may not be the tallest or most physical team, but we make the difference through structure, smart play and determination.”

Mental preparation also played an important role. For many of these players, this isn’t their first major tournament. They’ve already played at European Championships and other qualifiers, and they know what to expect. “This is the last tournament for this age group, so we want to make the most of it. We’ve set goals together, discussed our team identity, and talked about how we want to present ourselves – not just in results, but also in attitude and presence.”

The group stage opponents are not taken lightly. Pakistan is an unknown factor but definitely not to be ignored. Turkey and Argentina are seen as the toughest opponents, although the other three matches will be far from easy. “Every team at a World Championship has earned its spot, and that says enough,” says Moyaert. “We’re aiming for a top-four finish in our pool. That would allow us to play for positions one through sixteen. And then it gets serious, because in the first knockout match we’ll face a team from what we can rightfully call the ‘group of death’, with countries like Iran, Italy and Spain. Win that match and you stay in contention for the top eight. Lose it, and you continue for places nine to sixteen. So we need to be sharp from day one.”

What Moyaert hopes the players will take away from this World Championship goes far beyond results. “It’s hard to put into one sentence, but I mostly hope it will be a learning experience. They need to realise how valuable these moments are for their growth as high-level athletes. Every international match, every moment on court, is a step toward the next phase. Some of them will hopefully progress to the Red Dragons. What they learn here, they’ll carry with them forever.”

For her personally, this remains a very special journey. “This is my third World Championship as a coach, but it still feels unique. You don’t get here by accident. It takes a lot of preparation, selection and commitment. It’s a privilege to work with this group. It’s a highly coachable team with drive and character. And of course, with the best staff in the world supporting me, I can only be proud of where we are.”

Players
Hubert Guilhem
Mertens Warre
Speltinckx Viktor
Rauwoens Joppe
Devoghel Ward
Vanbroekhoven Tuur
Strobbe Jannes
Stoliar Andre
Coussens Jules
Vermarien Daan
Neyens Thomas
Van Pelt Ferre


Staff
Moyaert Mieke – Head Coach
Loosen Ben – Assistant Coach
Pierre Henry – Assistant Coach
Weyns Jan – Assistant Coach
Lippens Wout – Physiotherapist
Dupont Damien – Team Manager