From our special correspondent in Amriswil
He is one of the key links in the solid defensive base displayed by Tours VB this season. Able, too, to make a difference at the net with his touch on the ball, like a good self-respecting Argentinian.
Gonzalo Quiroga (31 years old), author of a solid match Wednesday in Amriswil (15 pt, 13/25 attack, 2 blocks), found his place within the Touraine group, he who arrived from Tourcoing to offseason.
A player for whom volleyball is a family affair and for whom Europe has opened the doors to an already rich career. Encounter.
Gonzalo, among the Quirogas, volleyball seems to be a family tradition.
“It’s in our blood, that’s for sure. I started quite early, around 6-7 years old, when my whole family was already playing it: my parents, my big brother (Rodrigo)who played in the national team, my uncle (Raúl)who was also a very good player (bronze medalist at the 1988 Seoul Olympics). »
So turning to volleyball was obvious?
“It was natural, however, I had the choice. I tried playing rugby… It only lasted a few days (laughs). I also did swimming during the summer. So I was never forced to play volleyball, it was my own decision. In the end, it allowed me to travel around the world, study in the United States… I am very grateful for that. »
What are your first memories of volleyball?
“They are obviously those linked to my first club, Obras de San Juan. A lot of us come from there: me, my brother or even Bruno Lima (ex-Nice) and Matias Sanchez (ex-Tourcoing)who also passed through France. Most of the players from our hometown, known for volleyball, come from this club. It's literally next to my house. So during the summer, with my friends, we were always there, playing two against two coming back from the swimming pool, on a small field. These are my oldest and best memories. »
And then, like your elders, you crossed the Atlantic to reach Europe, once you left the American university of UCLA…
“In Argentina, coming to Europe is the dream of every volleyball player. Some leagues are better than others, of course, but for anyone wanting to play professionally, this is the place to be. My uncle was the first to go to Europe (from the age of 21, in Italy, where he played nine seasons, including two in Modena)then my father (also in Italy)where he also coached for years. My older brother followed, then me, ten years ago. With their experience, they were able to tell me what to expect, what I should do on certain occasions… This helped me, obviously. »
At 31, you now have a journey full of lessons.
“I played in the United States, then in Italy, Poland, France… Each championship is different but they are all of a high level and that obviously brings a lot of experience to my game.”
Despite everything, you are still looking for a first club title. Is this partly what you came to Tours for?
“When you're here, the goal is to win one, not to make the play-offs or win a certain number of matches. This puts pressure, but good pressure, on everyone. Because you know you have the ability to get there and everyone is pushing for it. That's the goal this season, yes, to win as many titles as possible. But even with just one, I would be super happy! »
