Former stars back next generation

Not much is expected of the revamped Chinese female volleyball team at the London Olympics, but two former star national players still believe a medal is within reach at the Games.

With a roster that includes injured veterans and inexperienced young players, China's ability to advance to the knockout stage in London has been questioned following sluggish performances at pre-Olympic events.

The squad finished fifth at the World Grand Prix Finals last month, claiming only one win - over non-Olympic side Cuba - and drew criticism from many quarters, including FIVB boss Wei Jizhong.

However, 2004 Olympic gold-winning team members Zhao Ruirui and Yang Hao believe the side can finish on the podium in London.

"I think they can claim at least a medal," Zhao said at the launch of the adiBand, a wristband designed by adidas to support the Chinese athletes in London, on Tuesday.

"The team needs to be more consistent. Once it can position itself properly (as a challenger), I believe it can pull off a miracle," said Zhao, who has become a novelist since retiring in 2010.

Injuries remain the biggest problem for the young squad.

Almost half the starting roster, including attacker Wang Yimei, setter Wei Qiuyue and libero Zhang Xian, was sidelined by injuries at the Finals, and there are doubts they will be fully fit at the Games.

China's biggest weapon, Wang, has a sprained ankle, which reminds people of Zhao, who entered the 2004 Athens Games with a leg injury.

Zhao, who exacerbated her injury in Athens, took three years to fully recover and urges Wang not to rush back.

"She needs to be patient; ask herself how she feels and use caution in games," Zhao said. "That's the way to best serve herself and the team."

Yang, a starting attacker on the 2004 squad, echoed Zhao's sentiment, stressing a healthy Wang would lift the team to another level.

"I think the talent in the position (attacker) is stronger than our time. With Wang's comeback and seasoned substitute Chu (Jinling), our offense will be powerful enough," said Yang, who is now a college coach after retiring in 2009.

sunxiaochen@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 07/19/2012 page24)