Wang Yuanyuan understands that every player starts somewhere, having once been a young athlete learning her way through the game and striving to improve while building confidence in her abilities.
Wang remembers what it was like to be a young player trying to find her place in the sport. That is why she believes encouragement matters, particularly for athletes who are still building confidence and learning to trust themselves on the court.
“I think the most important thing young players need is to feel recognised and encouraged. That’s why I try to give them a lot of positive support and confidence,” Wang said. “I make a point of encouraging them because I truly believe they have unlimited potential. I want to cheer them on and share my experience with them whenever I can.”
Feeling supported is important, but Wang believes confidence ultimately has to come from within. Young players will inevitably encounter setbacks along the way, and she says learning not to lose faith in yourself during those moments is one of the most valuable lessons sport can teach.
Drawing from her own experiences, Wang believes self-belief should not disappear after a difficult performance or disappointing result. Instead, setbacks should become part of the learning process.
“The most important lesson is to learn to believe in yourself, to accept setbacks and to overcome them while continuing to believe in yourself afterwards,” Wang said. “I think that, in general, Asian players may be more modest because of our culture. But on the court, I believe we should learn from European players and the passion and confidence they show when they compete. I think that would help us improve.”
Wang has seen the difference confidence can make throughout her career, whether in training or on the international stage. While skill and preparation are important, she believes players are often held back by their own doubts.
That is why she encourages young athletes to trust themselves and what they can bring to the court.
“The advice I would give them is not to doubt themselves,” Wang said. “I think it’s important to be confident because only when you truly believe in yourself can you show a strong mindset on the court. I believe that confidence can really help them improve and reach the next level.”
This World Volleyball Day on July 7, celebrate the experienced teammates who helped shape your journey and the lessons they shared along the way. Tell us your volleyball story using #WorldVolleyballDay.
