Volleyball Foundation
The 19-year-old Syrian athlete shares how the demanding sands of Doha have shaped her growth and determination as she made her international debut in beach volleyball
A fourth-place finish on her international debut is a promising start for Syria’s Maguy Alshaikh, who competed at the inaugural U20 West Asian Beach Volleyball Championship in Doha, Qatar.
The 19-year-old teamed up with Hend Daaboul to reach the final four of the 16-team, eight-nation tournament held at Al Gharafa.
Originally, a volleyball player, Alshaikh answered the call to play in Doha, delivering a commendable performance on the sand that highlighted her potential and determination.
In an interview with Egypt’s two-time Olympian and FIVB Athletes’ Commission member Doaa Elghobashy, the young Syrian athlete shared her experience of gaining quick progress.
Reflecting on the experience, Alshaikh described the mix of challenges and opportunities that came with competing on an international stage.
“This is the first international tournament I’m participating in. I’m 19 years old, and it’s considered young to be playing at this level,” she said. “I feel like this tournament is giving me a lot of experience. The more I play, the better I’ll get. I’m originally an indoor player, so you can probably see from the way I jump that I’m not used to playing on sand. But I’m trying my best because I like to win.”
The tournament, co-organised by the FIVB and supported by Olympic Solidarity provided a platform for these young female athletes to pursue sport.
“The first thing I’ve learnt is that the more you train, the better you perform at the tournament because nothing comes without hard work. Another important thing is understanding your partner. If there’s no understanding, I don’t think any team can win,” she shared about this significant learning experience.
Representing Syria came with its own set of challenges, and Alshaikh admitted to feeling overwhelmed initially.
“At first, I was scared because it was a big responsibility. My feet felt like they were stuck to the ground out of fear,” she said. “But by the second or third match, I adapted to the environment, and things started going smoothly.”
Volleyball has always been a big part of Alshaikh’s life, as her introduction to the sport came at a young age.
“I’ve been playing since I was a kid, and I love that it’s a team game. I really love the team play and how we all get together. I enjoy every detail about volleyball,” she said with a lot of enthusiasm.
Alshaikh stressed the importance of courage and hard work when trying out sport.
“Don’t be afraid. Train and work on yourself. What you put in, you’ll get back. Practise as hard as you can,” she said.
Grateful for the support she’s received, Alshaikh acknowledged those who have helped her reach this stage.
“If it wasn’t for the encouragement of my parents and coach, I wouldn’t have reached this level,” she said. “Thanks to everyone who trained me and believed in me. To younger players, I would say volleyball is a great game. Start playing and see where it takes you.”
When asked about her inspirations, Alshaikh mentioned prominent Syrian volleyball and beach volleyball player Fayez Moussa, who guided and encouraged her.
“Fayez Moussa encouraged and coached me until I reached this level,” she shared. She also mentioned Brazilian star Bruno Rezenda as her international idol.
Maguy’s debut in Doha was a chance to grow, learn and lay the foundation for her future in the sport.
