Pleumjit taking positives from VNL experience

The journey to the 2021 FIVB Volleyball Nations League has been extremely different and challenging for the Thailand squad, but captain Pleumjit Thinkaow remains positive despite a series of setbacks.

Before the start of the VNL, Thailand had to immediately form a new team composed of their veterans to replace the original team that had several players infected with COVID-19.

But the veterans showed great camaraderie and committed to compete for their country. And that drew an outpouring of support from their fans around the world.

Even though they had a short preparation for the VNL, which affected their performances in the opening week, Pleumjit and her teammates are showing a positive attitude and not giving way to frustration.

“As you know our young players had COVID-19, that is the real team that should have competed here at the VNL," said the 37-year-old middle blocker. "But we came here for the reason that we just have to represent our country Thailand in this competition.”

The Thai team is composed mainly of veteran players who have been honed by tough encounters in major international competitions, but there are also younger players who are trying to gain more experience.

For Pleumjit, there is no better way to learn than by playing with the world’s best teams. And she is advising her younger teammates to focus on gaining experience and having a positive mindset in the VNL.

“We feel stronger now. We are playing against the strongest teams in the world here, so we have to learn and gain experience.

“I told the young players that the VNL is a world-class tournament where top teams play. They have to learn during these matches.”

Pleumjit communicates with her teammates like a true leader who deeply inspires and shares her bright outlook on the game.

“We talk everyday and I tell my teammates to do their best and to enjoy the game.”