A long-time commitment to youth growth is paying dividends for Al-Shabab Club, as highlighted in a recent interview with captain and coach Hussein Al-Khabbaz. Al-khabbaz details his journey from player to coach, emphasizing the importance of fostering talent within the Bahraini volleyball system. The conversation explores his coaching philosophies, the unique challenges of working with young athletes, and the strong family ties that underpin the club’s success.
Captain Hussein Al-Khabbaz, a youth volleyball coach at Al-Shabab Club, has dedicated his career to fostering the next generation of talent. His commitment and tireless work have been instrumental in developing a new wave of players who proudly represent the club. In a recent interview, Al-Khabbaz shared his journey, coaching philosophy, relationship with the club’s youth system, and future aspirations in the world of volleyball.
Early Days and Motivations
{How did your coaching journey with Al-Shabab Club begin, and did you anticipate reaching this level of responsibility?
– My coaching career started towards the end of my playing days. I began working with the club’s youth teams, assisting the coaches and helping to oversee the younger players. That experience was truly the launching pad for my coaching career.
{What motivated you to choose coaching over continuing as a player?
– Perhaps it stems from my deep passion for developing players and wanting to be close to them. However, coaching in Bahrain also comes with a lot of responsibility, often extending beyond the technical aspects of the game.
{Who were the most influential figures in your coaching career, and who helped you in your early days?
– Captain Amer Khalil (Iraqi) had the biggest impact on me as a player, influencing my entire generation and the game of volleyball at Al-Shabab Club. I also want to thank the coaches who guided me at the club, such as Captain Mohamed Hassan Boris, Captain Ali Jaafar, Captain Mustafa Daif (Egyptian), and the esteemed Captain Hassan Boursheed. They all played a vital role in my development, and I extend my gratitude to them from this platform.
Between Senior and Youth Teams
{You’ve had diverse coaching experiences with both the first team and youth teams. What’s the biggest difference between leading senior players and developing young talent?
– Leading the first team is very different from coaching the youth teams, whether in terms of objectives, requirements, or even the players’ technical and mental abilities. Dealing with youth players focuses on learning and development, while the first team aims for competition and victories, making the responsibility greater.
{ Which level do you find yourself enjoying more, and why?
– I find enjoyment in working with both levels because I love developing players, and at the same time, I enjoy the competitive atmosphere that comes with the first team.
*What challenges does a coach face when transitioning from coaching youth teams to the first team?
– The main differences between youth teams and the first team lie in the maturity of the players and the different objectives of each stage. Each level has its own specific requirements.
{ How would you describe the relationship between the first team’s coaching staff and the youth team coaches within the club?
– The relationship between the coaches at Al-Shabab Club is characterized by camaraderie and teamwork, which positively impacts overall performance and creates a positive and productive training environment.
Technical Vision and the Future of the Game
{ How do you assess the current level of volleyball at Al-Shabab Club compared to previous years?
– The development at the club is evident in the number of players who have represented the national teams, as well as the strong presence of club players in the first team. The league championship won by the team last season is a testament to this progress.
{ The club is known for developing talent. What factors have contributed to this success?
– The trust the administration places in the coaches, giving them the freedom, space, and time to work, has contributed greatly to this success and development.
{ How does the club work to refine young talents and prepare them for the future?
– The success of the youth teams begins with carefully selecting players with exceptional physical abilities, focusing on technical, physical, and mental training, and avoiding focusing on winning as the primary goal at these stages, but rather concentrating on development and learning.
{ In your opinion, what does the Al-Shabab team need to return to the top of the podium?
– The team needs some time for the players to mature further, along with addressing some shortcomings based on the club’s available financial resources.
{ How do you see the future of the game at the club in the coming years?
The future looks promising, as there are promising talents on the horizon. With the continued support of the administration, volleyball at Al-Shabab Club will continue its upward trajectory, God willing.
Teamwork and the Sporting Family
{ The Al-Khabbaz family is closely associated with Al-Shabab Club. How would you describe this special relationship?
– For us, the club is our home. We live and belong to it with everything we have.
{ What characterizes the “family spirit” within the Al-Shabab volleyball system?
– The current atmosphere at the club is very positive, with everyone loving and supporting each other. Success is viewed as a collective achievement, not an individual one.
{ Is family involvement in the game a strength or could it pose challenges at times?
– Teamwork, in my opinion, is a source of strength, not a challenge. It’s an essential element that adds value to the work and increases its effectiveness.
{ How would you describe the collaboration between you and your brother, Captain Mahmoud Al-Khabbaz?
– He is my companion in all stages of life. We complement each other, and we are always there to support each other.
{ What is your assessment of your brother Captain Mahmoud’s work with the first team?
– Captain Mahmoud is no stranger to the team. He contributed with me in building it from the youth levels to the first team. The results and excellent level we see today are clear evidence of his success, and I wish him continued success.
Ambitions and Personal Vision
{ What are your upcoming coaching goals in the short and medium term?
– Currently, I work with the youth teams at the club, in addition to being an assistant with the first team. I am in the fourth level of the National Academy for Coaches program, and I always strive to develop myself scientifically and technically.
{ Would you consider taking on a coaching experience outside of Al-Shabab Club in the future?
– If a suitable offer arises in terms of objectives and environment, I would not mind taking on a new experience, as development is a constant goal for me.
{ What message would you like to send to the club’s fans and young players who are following in your footsteps?
– I hope the club’s fans will attend and support the team, as their support is a great motivation for the players to give their best. And to our players, I say: every effort you make today will yield success tomorrow. Continue with your dedication, and God willing, the future will be brighter.
With a blend of realistic ambition and sincere loyalty, Captain Hussein Al-Khabbaz continues his journey with a spirit of giving and determination to build new generations who understand the value of the emblem they wear. The story of volleyball at Al-Shabab Club is a tale of dedication and building hope, embodied by loyalty and the family spirit that unites all who belong to this historic institution.
