LookAtVietnam – When volleyball fans discuss their favourite player they usually refer to 1.96m Ngo Van Kieu of Sanest Khanh Hoa.

Rising star: Nguyen Huu Ha (right) tries to block a smash in an international tournament in Viet Nam. Ha has been a key player for Trang An Ninh Binh and the National team in recent years.

Despite making good money, Ha wasn’t satisfied.

“It wasn’t good for my game. Playing in those events blunted my skills. My game didn’t improve.”

In 2004, Ha joined the newly established Ninh Binh men’s volleyball team.

It proved to be a wise decision and his talent soon began to blossom and Ninh Binh quickly became the leading volleyball team in the country.

National call-up

And as Ha’s fame grew, so did that of coach Nguyen Manh Hung.

In 2005, Ha was called to the national team to compete in the 23rd Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines. Viet Nam won the bronze medal.

In 2006, Ha helped Ninh Binh win the National AIl-Star Volleyball Championship, Mikasa Cup.

At the 24th SEA Games in Thailand two years ago, the brilliant pairing of Ha and Van Kieu helped the national team win the silver medal.

Coach Manh Hung said: “Ha is a talented player with a versatile game. This is not just me being nice. If you watch Ha play you will see what I mean.”

Although undaunted when playing, off the volleyball court he is rather timid, by his own admission. But his loyalty is ferocious.

“I have decided to attach myself permanently to Ninh Binh where my game has gone from strength to strength.”

Standing 1.91m tall and weighing 82kg, Ha is instantly recognisable on the court. It is also widely recognised that he has been crucial to Ninh Binh’s success. That said, his team were sorely disappointed to lose in the final of the National Volleyball League to Border Guard Golden Star 3-0.

“We will try our best at the next tournament to lift the title. Border Guard were worthy winners,” Ha said. “I will also try my best at the upcoming SEA Games in Laos in December to help the national team win gold,” he said.

On the weekend, Ha usually drives to Ha Noi where his wife and five-month-old daughter eagerly await his return, as do his fans.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News