Samy Agroum learns to set the pace and raise his game in Doha

Mohamed Samy Agroum has one of the most demanding jobs for his team. As Algeria’s setter, he is expected to make decisions, connect his teammates and keep the offense moving.

At the FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U17 World Championship, he is also learning just how quickly those decisions have to come against the best teams in the world.

The tournament in Doha has provided the 16-year-old with a new reference point.

“What impressed me the most is the high level of the teams,” Samy said. “Playing against the best U17 players in the world has been a great experience, and I’m learning a lot from every match.”

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The lessons have also been about handling difficult moments, staying focused and trusting the players around him.

Samy said the biggest lesson he has taken from the World Championship is the need to keep going when matches become difficult. As a setter, that also means remaining composed enough to keep the team together and trusting the players around him.

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to never give up,” he said. “As a player, I learned to stay focused and trust my teammates. As a person, I learned to stay strong and keep working hard.”

At 1.86 meters, Samy is part of a young Algerian generation getting an early opportunity to experience international volleyball. Born Aug. 12, 2010, he has reached a World Championship while still at the beginning of his development as a setter.

Beyond what he is learning on the court, wearing the Algerian jersey remains at the heart of the experience.

“It means a lot to me to wear the Algerian jersey,” Samy said. “I feel very proud to represent my country on such a big stage, and I will always give my best for Algeria.”

Asked for his proudest moment in Doha, Samy did not choose a set, a point or an individual play. Getting there was the moment.

“My proudest moment is being able to represent Algeria at the World Championship,” he said. “It is very special because I have worked hard for this opportunity, and playing for my country is a dream come true.”

Doha is giving Samy a chance to see where he stands against players his age from around the world. Samy also hopes his experience can encourage young players back home.

“I would tell young players in Algeria to believe in themselves and keep working hard,” he said. “There will be difficult moments, but they should never give up and should always believe in their dreams.”

The World Championship has become as much a classroom as a competition for Samy. Every match offers another look at the level he is chasing and another opportunity to learn how to run the game from Algeria’s side of the net.

Quick links:
FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U17 World Championship
FIVB Junior World Champs Instagram
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