Canadian women's volleyball setter Brie King elevating her game in Brazil
CBC
When you get a phone call to play for international volleyball's most decorated coach, Bernardo 'Bernardinho' Rezende of Brazil, you pack your bags.
Canadian setter Brie King didn't need to think twice about making the leap to sign with historic club Sesc RJ Flamengo in Rio de Janeiro last season. After all, it's another step toward her dream of making the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with Team Canada.
"I knew the reputation of the coach and it was kind of a no-brainer for my age and my position. It's kind of like a dream to play for him," King said in a recent interview with CBC Sports.
Since King's four-year U Sports career with the Trinity Western University Spartans, the 25-year-old native of Langley, B.C., has been taking her game to new levels while trotting around the globe. First, overseas in Germany, then in the United States with Athletes Unlimited, and later in France.
"She's young. Every year her game gets better. She's athletic, she can set, do everything in volleyball," said Canadian national coach Shannon Winzer on a recent call. "What we're really working on with her is how she runs the court and her set selection, which I think gets better every year.
"I think she's on track to be one of the best setters Canada has ever seen. She has the work ethic to back it up."
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Brazil gave King an unparalleled opportunity.
First, to play with some of the best players in the world (Brazil's women are ranked No. 1 internationally), immerse herself in the Superliga which prides itself on its fast offence, fluid defence, long rallies and strong volleyball IQ. And of course, play for Bernardinho.
He has the ultimate resume. A two-time Olympian and 1984 silver medallist as a player, he's won no fewer than 30 major trophies as a coach.
He guided the Brazilian men's team to two Olympic gold (2004, 2016), two Olympic silver (2008 and 2012) and three world championships. He added two more Olympic bronze medals with the women's national team (1996, 2000). It's no surprise he's a member of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame.
His face garners posters on buildings and at airports, just like soccer superstars Neymar and the late Pele.
"You don't really want to walk around in public with [Bernardinho] because it takes a while to get through people," King laughed.
The decision paid off. Despite a heartbreaking loss in the semifinals to Praia Clube, King was the top setter in the Superliga in her first season.
