Robertlandy Simón is today one of the most iconic middle blockers in the world of volleyball. As a leader of the Italian club Piacenza and the Cuban national team, he doesn't just inspire with his play – his life is a story of courage, sacrifice, and perseverance. In an interview for the Polish mediasport.tvp.pl, given to journalist Sara Kalisz, Simón talks about his long and difficult journey – from training on muddy courts in Cuba to the grand arenas of Europe.

🛑 Refusal to defect – love for family

When Cuban players decide to leave the country to compete professionally abroad, it often means giving up everything. For Simón, the decision was even harder.

"I didn't want to defect because I was very attached to my mother. I lost her nine years ago. Also, I have a disabled brother whom I fully care for," he recounts.

Emigration from Cuba is particularly difficult for athletes – besides political and visa obstacles, there are personal ones. That's why Simón chose a different path –he had to marry an Italian womanto get the opportunity to leave Cuba legally. The relationship was short, but the volleyball player achieved his goal: freedom to play and build a professional career.

🏐 Accidental encounter with volleyball

Simón never dreamed of volleyball – his childhood passion was basketball. But when there were no spots in the basketball section at the local sports school, volleyball coaches convinced his mother to let him try this sport. That's how it all began.

"Volleyball is hard at first. It's not like basketball, where you get a ball and play. Nothing is intuitive – everything has to be learned with many repetitions."

But for children in Cuba, it wasn't easy. They often didn't have balls, nets, or even a proper sports field.

"We trained outside. Sometimes we just ran. If it rained – there was no training. When someone gave us 2-3 balls, we used them until they were completely worn out. This also explains why Cubans have great physiques, but technically we sometimes fall behind."

💰 Help from Italy – Piacenza opens the door

After deciding to leave Cuba, Simón faced another wall – his homeland did not want to release him. But thenthe club Piacenzaintervened.

"They said they wanted me and would pay me even while I was in Cuba. They gave me $300 a month – a huge sum for me then. When I left the island, they arranged my contract, visas, everything. They made the impossible possible."

⛔ Two-year ban – deprived of sport

After retiring from the national team, Simon was punished by the Cuban government. For two years, he was not allowed to enter any sports facility.

“I dedicated that time to everyday life – I wanted to create a stable home in Cuba. But since I was recognizable, I had to pay 3-4 times more for everything. I had friends buy materials instead of me to make it cheaper.”

✈️ Return to the national team – but not without obstacles

Today Simon wears the Cuban uniform again, although it's not easy at all. Political restrictions, lack of direct flights, long journeys, and time differences make every tournament difficult. And yet, he continues.

“I like what fans in Poland feel for their players. It's the same in Cuba. When we go out on the street, people approach us and cheer for us. I see that what we do matters.”

Robertlandy Simón's story is more than a sports biography – it's a lesson in faith, family love, and resilience. In a world where talent is not always enough, he manages to break through with strength, will, and help from the right people. And today, despite the difficulties, he continues to carry Cuba in his heart and prove that the struggle is always worth it.

photos: Nikolay Varadinov