Interview of AZERTAC with Nayka Benites, Puerto Rican volleyball player of "Azerrail", the champion of Azerbaijan

- You became the champion of Azerbaijan in your first season with "Azerrail". What are your impressions?

- This season was difficult for us. We had many injured players. There were also some changes in the team. It was difficult for the team to find its game. Our opponents had been preparing together since September of last year, but we were training with the full team only since January of this year. Therefore, the championship was special for us. I am happy that I won the cup in my first season here. Everyone contributed to our success.

- After losing the first game of the final against "Absheron" with a score of 0:3, many did not expect you to make a comeback...

- We had not won any games against "Absheron" during the season. Everyone believed that they would be the champions this year. The opponent really has a strong team. For this reason, they were considered the main favorites for the gold medals. After the first final match, the team gathered and said, "We have another chance, we have nothing to lose." Head coach Paolo Tofoli told us during the season that every meeting is a story and that we can face any outcome. He always believes in his volleyball players. This is the most important factor. We tried to enjoy the second match. We were going to the last game of the season. We had forgotten the first match. We opened a new page for ourselves. There was a team with great energy on the field. I felt that we could turn the situation in our favor. And so it happened, we managed to do it.

- As a legionnaire player, what can you say about the level of the Azerbaijan Higher League?

- We had very interesting games this season. I heard that the Azerbaijan Volleyball Federation has good plans for the new season. Your league is developing.

- Are you thinking of staying at "Azerrail" next season as well?

- Yes, I will return to this club again. I gained a lot of good experience here. Everyone treats me kindly. Therefore, I will be at "Azerrail" next season as well.

- What are your thoughts about Azerbaijan and the city of Baku?

- Before coming here, I didn't know much about Azerbaijan. I was wondering what I could do in your country. Being far from my homeland Puerto Rico, living in a country with a different culture seemed strange. But my teammates and other people supported me. Now I am happy in Baku. My favorite place is Icherisheher. There are historical monuments there.

- A few days ago, you went to Lankaran with the team to celebrate the championship. What did you like in the southern region of Azerbaijan?

- Lankaran has magnificent nature. It reminds me of my country, Puerto Rico. I enjoyed every moment.

Idman.biz