Pasay City, Philippines.On the court in Manila, amidst the roaring crowd and the tension of the World Championship, USA captain Micah Christenson finds his greatest strength not in his serve or block, but in… his sneakers.
Because on them live the messages and drawings of his three children – Zeke, Quinn, and Finley.

The white Nikes are not ordinary sneakers – they are the canvas on which small hands have written "Go Dad", drawn a cross for the family's faith, and left colorful scribbles that remind their father of their unconditional love.

„It’s unique. I smile every time. When I tie them, when I look down in the middle of a block, I see my family’s message – whether it’s ‘Go Dad’, a cross, or just a drawing from my children – it’s a small piece of them that is with me on the court,“ Christenson shared with the organizers’ website.

Victory, inspired by love

And this strength paid off – the Americans came back against Slovenia with a 3:1 victory (19:25, 25:22, 25:17, 25:20) and qualified for the quarterfinals at SM Mall of Asia Arena. The captain was at the heart of the comeback, and in the toughest moments, he found solace in the thought that even far from home, his family was with him.

„I can’t forget my amazing wife Brooke, who organized all of this and helped the children. I look at my shoes and realize that I have so much love and support waiting for me – whether I win or lose,“ the USA captain added.

Bulgaria awaits the next challenge

After losing the first set against the Slovenians, Christenson also saw the positive side – a lesson and preparation before the quarterfinal against Bulgaria.

„I think it was great preparation for us. We felt pressure, we lost a set, we faced powerful serves and many tactical float serves. We know that Bulgaria is exceptionally strong from the service line, so we will do everything possible to be ready,“ warned the USA captain.

photos: Nikolay Varadinov