Osmany Juantorena is just 316 days away from achieving his childhood dream to play in the Olympics with Cuba Italy.
Os, Zaytsev and Italia defeated Poland last night in a very crucial match to qualify for the 2016 Olympics in Brazil. They also finished the 2015 FIVB World Cup tournament with a silver medal.
At the post match conference, Os could not hide his excitement.
“I can’t believe this victory.
We were a new team and played well. We concentrated both in practice and throughout the tournament. My compliments to the staff, trainers and captain Buti.
It was a team effort. Our goal was to qualify, so I am happy for this achievement.
I have been dreaming about playing in the Olympics since I was a kid.”
With Cuban teams (men and women) struggling, Os will be the FIRST MALE CUBAN volleyball player to make an Olympic appearance since the 2000 Olympics in Sydney. Only this time with a different jersey just like what female player Taismary Aguero did in 2008.
Stay healthy OS and we can’t wait to see you rockin that Italian jersey in Rio!
(images: FIVB)