Tom and Manu do the trick

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If it was not for the love of the game, veteran volleyball player Tom Joseph would be happy sitting at his home in Ernakulam and doing the day to day work at Kochi Refinery. But his zest for the game has taken him to new horizons as he proved his mettle once again in the 60th National Volleyball Championship.

The 31-year-old gave a powerful face-smash to all those critics who said that his profound career in volleyball had reached its culmination, citing his age. But Tom, through his performance in the nationals earned the man-of-the-tournament award.

Excerpts from an interview with Tom Joseph

Tell us about the atmosphere that prevailed before and after the tournament?

We were a little tense as two of our experienced players were down with fever and we had to adjust with the youngsters. However, they proved that they are equally qualified to play in the nationals. Now, everyone is ecstatic about the victory as we have won after a long title drought. This is a memorable moment for the players.

You were sidelined from the national team to give exposure to the youngsters. Can this be termed as your comeback?

Every player likes to continue as long as he is fit. The last time I played for the national team was in 2009. So there has been a long gap. I am happy that I got a good platform for my comeback and that too by playing a crucial role in the state team. I am confident that I am still fit to play for the national team. With this performance, I am waiting for a call to the national team.

Kerala’s win was a result of the perfect blend of youngsters and veterans. How do you see the youngsters’ performance?

As a team, we were a perfect blend. During the state camp itself as a team we blended perfectly. Moreover, the youngsters rose to the occasion supporting the team and playing confidently. This was a major boost and helped us to improve after each game.

Find of the tournament

As Tom Joseph dumbfounded his opponents with his wonderful performance, another player; Manu Joseph had a blissful tournament, which could be said to be the turning point in his career.

As Manu said, “We did it at last. I am happy that I am in the team and was able to contribute a lot.” A native of Kannur, he is a promising player who is waiting for the national team camp call up after the tournament and a worthy heir to Tom Joseph.