Maaseik is very close to the dream. After two convincing finals wins, Greenyard have taken a major step toward the championship and now stand just two victories away from their 17th national title. The contrast with Roeselare is striking: while the Limburg side is playing with confidence, intensity and control, Knack now looks close to breaking point. Still, in a best-of-five final, nothing is officially done yet. But Maaseik are now only one step away from a title they have been chasing since 2019.

At the heart of that run is Sam Fafchamps, Maaseik’s smiling middle blocker. He has moved through his career season by season, without rushing anything, and has become an important part of Pawel Woicki’s team. Born in Welkenraedt, French-speaking and holding a master’s degree in physiotherapy from the University of Liège, he comes from a very sporty family. Volleyball is in his background: his brother still plays for Saint-Joseph Welkenraedt, while Sam himself remains closely connected to his former volleyball family, including the Perin household.

Fafchamps says he has chosen a patient path and is in no hurry to chase an international move. He has just extended his contract with Maaseik for a third season, with an option for a fourth, and prefers to take things one year at a time. Stability matters to him, both personally and professionally, and he does not want to force anything.

The start of the season was not easy. As often in recent years, Maaseik almost completely rebuilt the squad, and the team needed time to settle. But gradually, the group found its rhythm. European matches, a lost cup final against Menen and an increasingly strong league campaign all helped shape Maaseik into a tougher, more complete team. The arrival of coach Pawel Woicki proved decisive: he brought structure, confidence and a strong human connection with the squad.

In the first two title matches, Maaseik clearly imposed its game. In the opener, the Limburg team was especially strong through the middle and showed great composure to turn difficult sets around. In the second match, the dominance was even more obvious: a blistering start, a compact block, aggressive serving and a Roeselare side that never really recovered. Fafchamps stresses the collective strength of the team, but he also singles out setter Juan Finoli for special praise, admiring his creativity and unpredictability.

Still, Fafchamps keeps his feet on the ground. He knows the title is not won yet and refuses to celebrate too early. Roeselare remains a dangerous opponent, especially at home. But the situation is in Maaseik’s favour: they lead 2-0 and can already see the finish line. The club is dreaming of a 17th crown, while Fafchamps is hoping to claim his first major national title.

Looking further ahead, the Red Dragons are also on his radar. Being named on the summer longlist confirms that he is entering a new phase in his career. If selected, he wants to play the Volleyball Nations League and then the European Championship in Finland. The targets are clear: earn ranking points and, in the longer term, aim for Olympic qualification for Los Angeles 2028.

For him, the 2025-2026 season could become Maaseik’s season of rebirth. But he says it without any triumphalism: caution is still needed, because top-level volleyball can always spring a surprise. What is certain is that Maaseik now only has to finish the job. One more push, one more big statement, and the 17th title could become reality.

Text: LP
Image: Pim Waslander