The Nova Tech Lycurgus volleyball team from Groningen bid farewell to Qatari player Kal Fischer. The American is still suffering from the effects of the surgery he underwent on his knee.
The 24-year-old has not been available for some time for Lycurgos, who are currently competing for the Dutch title in the qualifiers. Fisher boarded the plane on Thursday to continue his recovery at his home in the American city of Pittsburgh. He came to Lycurgus from Penn State last summer, but his knee continued to bother him.
At the start of the season, the American was still getting the necessary playing minutes. But since then he has only done strength training to improve his fitness. According to the team, the medical staff did everything in their power to return Fisher to fitness for the crucial part of the season, but the results appear to be insufficient. Therefore, it is best for the player to continue his rehabilitation process at home among family and friends.
“A consummate professional”
On Wednesday evening, Fisher said goodbye to his colleagues and staff in an informal meeting. Coach Arjan Taij said he met him as a top professional, who did everything he could to get back into shape. He described it as a very good Qatari.
“I wasn't able to show what I came here for. So it's hard for me to go, but continuing to recover at home with my family and friends is the best thing right now,” Fisher said.
Job Alberda does not rule out a return
General Manager Job Alberda does not rule out the American's return in the future: “We wish him the best and perhaps we will see him again later at Martini Plaza.” When he played, Fisher was statistically the best Qatari player in the English Premier League. He played in a total of twelve matches. The last time was on December 7 in the first leg against Sliderecht Sport. As an alternative, Lycurgus recently appointed Kay van Dijk to the country position.
