Ferre Reggers hopes the Red Dragons will be remembered in Manila as an energetic team that never stops fighting as they opened their 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship campaign with a victory.
Belgium’s Ferre Reggers made sure to stamp his class in his first-ever FIVB Men’s World Championship appearance, powering the Red Dragons past Ukraine in straight sets at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, September 14.
The 22-year-old opposite spiker, who fired a game-high 23 points, admitted the moment was a dream realized for Belgian volleyball, a nation not traditionally known as a powerhouse in the sport.
“It’s a really big deal to be here. We worked really hard for this moment, especially for this game, so we’re really happy we could finish this way,” Reggers said.
“Belgium is a really small country. Volleyball isn’t that big, so we’re proud we put together this team that can go really far. We like to be the underdogs and prove that we belong.”
Boost from Filipino fans
Being in Manila for the first time, Reggers shared that Belgium hopes to be remembered by the Filipino fans as a squad that plays with heart and grit, no matter the challenge.
These World Championship mark just the third time in the nation’s history that it qualified for the global joust.
“I want to be remembered as an energetic team and a team that never stops fighting—and I think we showed that today,” he added.
“Even in the difficult moments, when they came back a little, we tried to stop them with our energy.”
Belgium celebrates a point during their sweep of Ukraine in the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
The Belgian star was also impressed by the Filipino crowd that turned up at the Big Dome, admitting their cheers gave him extra confidence during his World Championship debut.
“It’s amazing, it gives you a little boost that’s really helpful at the start of the game when you feel stressed. They cheer you on and you can play your own game,” Reggers said.
A lighthearted touch
Asked about a taste of Belgian culture he would recommend to Filipinos, Reggers didn’t hesitate:
“The fries. I know it’s called French fries, but they’re Belgian," he quipped.
"They’re made in Belgium and it’s our speciality. It’s the best thing we have. It’s the best thing we have. It’s a little unhealthy, so watch out with the amount you eat, but it’s so good."
With their first win in the books, Belgium turns its attention to an even bigger challenge as it faces reigning world champions Italy on Tuesday, September 16.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.