10 Famous Short Players in Volleyball: Height Isn’t Everything

I am blessed with a good height and it helped me a lot in my game. But, my views about the benefit of height in Volleyball are somewhat like the “Top Gun” Movie quote – it’s not the plane, it’s the pilot. And that’s from my personal experience as well as from the impeccable records created by so called short players worldwide.

I remember the day like it was yesterday. It was during the Minnesota High School Invitational, one of my first major tournaments. Our team was facing off against a squad where it seemed that every one of their players was tall. Really tall. As we warmed up, I felt a bit intimidated.

And then their setter stepped onto the court, and he was… short. Probably no taller than 5’7″. I was puzzled due to this gap, but as the game progressed, I was amazed. This player moved with incredible speed, had pinpoint accuracy, and seemed to be everywhere on the court at once. It was an important lesson for me – that height isn’t everything in volleyball.

This experience also sparked my interest in shorter volleyball players who have made their mark on the sport. So, let’s dive into a list of 10 of the shortest players in volleyball history who proved that skill, determination, and heart can overcome any height disadvantage.

Fábio Luiz Magalhães (5’8″ / 173 cm) – Brazil

Fábio was a beach volleyball player. He was part of the team that won an Olympic silver medal in 2008. Despite his height, he was a formidable player due to his agility and defensive skills.

Achievements:

• Olympic Silver Medal: Fábio’s crowning achievement came at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he and his partner Márcio Araújo secured the silver medal in men’s beach volleyball.
• World Tour Victories: Fábio has won numerous FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour events throughout his career.
• Brazilian National Championships: Fábio has multiple Brazilian national championship titles, showcasing his dominance even on home soil.
• World Championship Medal: In 2005, Fábio and Márcio Araújo won the bronze medal at the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships in Berlin.

Playing Style:

The Brazilian athlete demonstrates an uncanny ability to read the game, anticipating plays before they unfold. Rather than viewing his smaller stature as a limitation, Fábio transforms it into a powerful advantage. He glides across the sand with remarkable agility, reaching speeds that taller players cannot match.

Time and again, Fábio executes seemingly impossible digs, stretching his body to its limits and somehow managing to keep the ball in play when others would have conceded the point.

Fábio brings exceptional defensive mastery to the sand court, where his natural instincts and quick reflexes constantly amaze spectators and opponents alike.

Hélia Souza “Fofão” (5’9″ / 175 cm) – Brazil

Fofão was a legendary setter in her time. She led Brazil to gold in the 2008 Olympics. Her precise sets and court vision made her one of the best in the game.

Her achievements:

• Olympic Gold Medal: Fofão’s crowning achievement came at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where she led the Brazilian team to gold, capping off her illustrious Olympic career.
• Olympic Bronze Medals: She also won bronze medals at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
• World Championship Gold: Fofão led Brazil to victory in the 2006 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship.
• World Grand Prix Titles: She was part of the Brazilian team that won seven FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix titles (1994, 1996, 1998, 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2008).
• South American Championship: Fofão won multiple South American Championship titles with Brazil.
• Individual Awards: She was named Best Setter in numerous tournaments throughout her career, including the 2008 Olympics and several World Grand Prix events.

Playing Style:

Fofão is renowned for her exceptional setting skills, court vision, and tactical acumen. Despite her shorter stature for a volleyball player, she compensated with:

1. Precision: She was a setter with pinpoint accuracy, allowing her hitters to attack effectively against taller blockers.
2. Speed: Fofão’s quick thinking and faster movements often caught opposing teams off-guard.
3. Versatility: She could effectively run complex offensive plays, mixing up tempos and locations to keep defenders guessing.
4. Leadership: As a setter, Fofão was the quarterback of her team, known for her ability to read the game and make smart decisions under pressure.
5. Serving: She developed a strong, tactical serve that could put pressure on the opposing team’s reception.

Walewska Oliveira (5’10” / 178 cm) – Brazil

Though taller than some on this list, Walewska was considered short for her position as a middle blocker. Walewska has had an impressive career that showcases how technique and timing can rival pure height.

Achievements:

• Olympic Bronze Medal: Walewska won a bronze medal with the Brazilian national team at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
• World Championship Gold: She was part of the Brazilian team that won the 2006 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship.
• World Grand Prix Titles: Walewska has multiple FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix titles to her name (2004, 2006, 2008, 2009).
• South American Championship: She has won several South American Championship titles with Brazil.
• Club Level Success: At the club level, Walewska has played for top teams in Brazil, Italy, and Turkey, winning numerous national championships and cups.
• Individual Awards: Despite her height, Walewska has been named Best Blocker in several tournaments throughout her career.

Playing Style:

As a middle blocker, Walewska’s playing style is characterized by:

1. Exceptional Timing: To compensate for her lack of height, Walewska developed impeccable timing for her blocks and attacks.
2. Quick Movements: Her agility allowed her to move quickly along the net, participating in more plays than taller, slower middle blockers.
3. Technical Precision: Walewska’s technique in both blocking and attacking was highly refined, allowing her to compete effectively against taller opponents.
4. Tactical Awareness: She was known for her ability to read the game well, anticipating the opposing team’s plays and adjusting her position accordingly.
5. Versatility: While primarily a middle blocker, Walewska’s all-around skills allowed her to contribute effectively in other aspects of the game when needed.

Impact on the Sport:

Walewska’s success as a shorter middle blocker has been inspirational for many volleyball players. She proved that with the right technique, timing, and tactical understanding, it’s possible to excel in a position typically dominated by much taller players. Her career has encouraged coaches and players to look beyond just height when considering the potential of middle blockers.

Yuki Ishikawa (5’10” / 178 cm) – Japan

Ishikawa is known for his powerful spikes and serves. He’s a key player on the Japanese national team despite being shorter than many opponents.

His Achievements:

• Asian Games Gold Medal: Ishikawa led the Japanese team to gold at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta.
• Asian Volleyball Championship: He helped Japan secure a silver medal in the 2019 Asian Men’s Volleyball Championship.
• V.League Division 1 (Japan) MVP: Ishikawa was named the Most Valuable Player of Japan’s top professional league in the 2016-2017 season.
• Italian SuperLega Success: He has had successful stints in the highly competitive Italian SuperLega, playing for top clubs like Latina and Padova.
• World League Best Outside Spiker: Ishikawa was named one of the Best Outside Spikers in the 2017 FIVB Volleyball World League.
• Olympic Participation: He represented Japan in the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

Playing Style:

Despite his relatively short stature for an outside hitter, Ishikawa’s playing style is characterized by:

1. Explosive Jumping Ability: Ishikawa compensates for his height with an impressive vertical leap, allowing him to hit over taller blockers.
2. Powerful Spikes: He’s known for his ability to deliver strong, fast spikes that can penetrate even solid blocks.
3. Versatility: Ishikawa is skilled in both attack and defense, making him a well-rounded player on the court.
4. Quick Reflexes: His agility and quick reactions make him effective in both attacking and defensive plays.
5. Tactical Serving: Ishikawa has developed a strong, tactical serve that puts pressure on the opposing team’s reception.
6. Leadership: As one of Japan’s key players, he often takes on a leadership role, inspiring and motivating his teammates.

Impact on the Sport: Ishikawa’s success has been particularly inspiring for Asian volleyball players, who are often at a height disadvantage compared to their Western counterparts. He’s shown that with the right combination of skill, athleticism, and determination, it’s possible to compete at the highest levels of the sport. His performances in the Italian league have also helped to break down stereotypes about Asian players in international volleyball.

Saori Kimura (5’10” / 178 cm) – Japan

Saori Kimura, standing at 5’10” (178 cm), is considered one of the greatest volleyball players in Japanese history. Kimura was a versatile player who could play as both an outside hitter and libero. She competed in three Olympic Games.

Her achievements:

• Olympic Medal: Kimura led the Japanese team to a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics, ending a 28-year Olympic medal drought for Japanese women’s volleyball.
• World Championship Bronze: She was part of the Japanese team that won bronze at the 2010 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship.
• World Grand Prix: Kimura helped Japan secure bronze medals in the 2013 and 2014 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix.
• Asian Games: She led Japan to gold medals in the 2006 and 2010 Asian Games.
• Asian Championship: Kimura was part of the Japanese team that won the Asian Championship in 2007 and 2017.
• Individual Awards: She received numerous individual awards throughout her career, including being named to the “Dream Team” of the 2010 World Championship and being selected as the MVP of the 2010 Asian Games.

Playing Style:

1. Versatility: She excelled as both an outside hitter and a libero, showcasing her all-around skills.
2. Powerful Attacks: Despite her relatively small stature, Kimura was known for her strong spikes and ability to score crucial points.
3. Exceptional Defense: Her background as a libero made her an outstanding defensive player, even when playing as an outside hitter.
4. Leadership: Kimura was the captain of the Japanese national team for many years, known for her ability to motivate and lead her teammates.
5. Technical Precision: She compensated for her lack of height with impeccable technique in all aspects of the game.
6. Mental Toughness: Kimura was known for her ability to perform under pressure, often leading her team in crucial moments.

Impact on the Sport:

Kimura’s success has been tremendously inspirational, particularly for Asian volleyball players. She proved that with skill, versatility, and determination, it’s possible to compete at the highest levels of the sport despite height disadvantages. Her leadership was crucial in revitalizing Japanese women’s volleyball, culminating in the Olympic bronze medal in 2012.

Haruka Miyashita (5’7″ / 170 cm) – Japan

Miyashita(her wiki link) is one of the shortest setters in international volleyball. Her quick thinking and precise setting have made her a key player for Japan’s national team.

Achievements:

• Olympic Participation: Miyashita represented Japan in the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
• World Championship: She was part of the Japanese team that finished 6th in the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship.
• Asian Championship: Miyashita helped Japan secure gold medals in the 2017 and 2019 Asian Women’s Volleyball Championship.
• FIVB Volleyball Nations League: She has been a crucial player for Japan in this annual international tournament, helping the team achieve consistent top-10 finishes.
• V.League Division 1 (Japan): Miyashita has won multiple championships and individual awards in Japan’s top professional league.
• Individual Awards: She has been named Best Setter in several tournaments, including the 2017 and 2019 Asian Championships.

Playing Style:

Despite her short stature for a volleyball player, Miyashita’s playing style is characterized by:

1. Exceptional Speed: Her quick movements allow her to cover the court efficiently and get to the ball faster than many taller setters.
2. Precision Setting: Miyashita is known for her extremely accurate sets, consistently putting her hitters in the best position to score.
3. Game Intelligence: She has a keen understanding of the game, making smart decisions about which hitter to set based on the opponent’s block setup.
4. Versatility: While primarily a setter, Miyashita is also skilled in defense and can contribute effectively in other aspects of the game when needed.
5. Jump Setting: To compensate for her height, Miyashita has developed an excellent jump set, allowing her to set from a higher point.
6. Leadership: As the setter, she acts as the team’s on-court leader, directing the offense and motivating her teammates.

Impact on the Sport: Miyashita’s success has been particularly inspiring for shorter volleyball players, especially those aspiring to be setters. She’s shown that with the right combination of skill, speed, and tactical understanding, it’s possible to excel at the highest levels of the sport despite height limitations. Her performances have challenged the notion that setters need to be tall to be effective at the international level.

Miki Ishi (5’7″ / 170 cm) – Japan

Ishi is one of the shortest players to compete in women’s indoor volleyball at the international level. Her speed and agility make her an excellent defensive specialist.

Ishi’s Achievements:

• Olympic Participation: Ishi was part of the Japanese team at the 2016 Rio and 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
• World Championship: She contributed to Japan’s 6th place finish in the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship.
• Asian Championship: Ishi helped Japan secure gold medals in the 2017 and 2019 Asian Women’s Volleyball Championship.
• FIVB Volleyball Nations League: She has been a consistent performer for Japan in this annual international tournament, helping the team achieve top-10 finishes.
• V.League Division 1 (Japan): Ishi has won multiple awards in Japan’s top professional league, including being named to the Best 6 team.
• Individual Awards: She has received recognition for her defensive skills in various tournaments, including being named Best Libero in domestic competitions.

Playing Style:

Ishi’s playing style is known by:

1. Exceptional Speed and Agility: Her small stature allows her to move quickly across the court, reaching balls that taller players might struggle to get to.
2. Outstanding Defense: Ishi excels in receiving serves and digging attacks, using her low center of gravity to her advantage.
3. Precise Ball Control: She’s known for accurately passing the ball to the setter, even from difficult positions.
4. Reading the Game: Ishi has a keen ability to anticipate opponents’ attacks, positioning herself effectively for defense.
5. Serving: Despite her size, she has developed an effective serve that can put pressure on the opposing team’s reception.

Impact on the Sport:

Ishi’s success has been particularly inspiring for shorter volleyball players worldwide. She’s demonstrated that with the right skill set and determination, even the shortest players can compete at the highest levels of the sport. Her performances have challenged the notion that volleyball is exclusively a tall person’s game, especially in defensive positions.

Misty May-Treanor (5’9″ / 175 cm) – USA

A beach volleyball legend, May-Treanor won three consecutive Olympic gold medals. Her skill and determination more than made up for her relatively short stature in the sport.

Achievements:

• Olympic Gold Medals: May-Treanor won three consecutive Olympic gold medals in beach volleyball (2004 Athens, 2008 Beijing, 2012 London) with her partner Kerri Walsh Jennings.
• World Championships: She won three FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships (2003, 2005, 2007).
• AVP Tour: May-Treanor dominated the domestic AVP Tour, winning 112 titles throughout her career.
• FIVB World Tour: She won 43 international titles on the FIVB World Tour.
• Individual Awards: May-Treanor was named the USA Volleyball Player of the Year four times (1998, 2000, 2002, 2005) and FIVB Best Defensive Player five times (2007-2011).
• Hall of Fame: She was inducted into the Volleyball Hall of Fame in 2016.

Playing Style:

1. Exceptional Defense: Known as “The Turtle” for her ability to dig seemingly impossible balls, her defensive skills were unparalleled.
2. Strategic Serving: She developed a highly effective jump serve that put pressure on opponents.
3. Court Awareness: May-Treanor had an uncanny ability to read the game and position herself perfectly.
4. Versatility: While primarily known for her defense, she was also a skilled attacker and setter.
5. Athleticism: Her quickness and agility allowed her to cover a large portion of the court.
6. Mental Toughness: May-Treanor was known for her composure under pressure and ability to perform in clutch situations.

Partnership with Kerri Walsh Jennings:

A significant part of May-Treanor’s success came from her partnership with the 6’3″ (191 cm) Kerri Walsh Jennings. Their complementary skills – May-Treanor’s defensive prowess and Walsh Jennings’ blocking ability – made them one of the most dominant teams in beach volleyball history. This partnership showcased how players with different physical attributes can combine their strengths to overcome individual limitations.

Teodor Salparov (5’11” / 180 cm) – Bulgaria

Salparov is one of the shortest male players to compete at the highest level of volleyball. As a libero, his quickness and defensive skills have made him invaluable to his team.

Salparov’s Achievements:

• Olympic Participation: Salparov represented Bulgaria in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics.
• World Championship: He was part of the Bulgarian team that finished fourth in the 2006 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
• European Championship: Salparov helped Bulgaria secure a bronze medal in the 2009 European Volleyball Championship.
• FIVB World League: He has been a crucial player for Bulgaria in this annual international tournament, helping the team achieve several top-10 finishes.
• CEV Champions League: Salparov has won the CEV Champions League twice (2012 with Zenit Kazan, 2015 with Zenit Kazan).
• Individual Awards: He has been named Best Libero in numerous tournaments, including the 2012 Olympic Games, 2009 European Championship, and multiple times in the Russian Superleague.

His Playing Style:

Salparov’s playing style is characterized by:

1. Exceptional Defense: His ability to read the game and position himself perfectly makes him one of the best defensive players in the world.
2. Quick Reflexes: Salparov’s speed and agility allow him to cover a large area of the court effectively.
3. Precise Passing: He’s known for his accurate passes, which set up the team’s offense efficiently.
4. Mental Toughness: Salparov remains calm under pressure, consistently performing in high-stakes situations.
5. Versatility: While primarily a libero, Salparov’s all-around skills make him valuable in various defensive scenarios.

Career Longevity:
Salparov’s career has spanned over two decades, a testament to his skill, work ethic, and ability to adapt. He has played for top clubs in Bulgaria, Russia, Turkey, and Italy, consistently performing at a high level despite often being the shortest player on the court.

Erik Shoji (6’0″ / 183 cm) – USA

While 6 feet might not seem short, for a men’s volleyball player, Shoji is considered compact. He’s an excellent libero known for his defensive skills.

Achievements:

• Olympic Bronze Medal: Shoji was part of the U.S. Men’s National Team that won bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
• Olympic Participation: He also represented the USA in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021).
• FIVB World Cup: Shoji helped the USA win bronze in the 2015 and 2019 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Cup.
• FIVB World League: He was part of the U.S. team that won the 2014 FIVB Volleyball World League.
• NORCECA Championship: Shoji has multiple gold medals from the NORCECA Continental Championship (2013, 2017).
• Individual Awards: He has been named Best Libero in numerous tournaments, including the 2015 FIVB World Cup and multiple times in the Russian Superleague.

Playing Style:

• Exceptional Defense: His ability to read the game and position himself perfectly makes him one of the best defensive players in the world.
• Quick Reflexes: Shoji’s speed and agility allow him to cover a large area of the court effectively.
• Precise Passing: He’s known for his accurate passes, which set up the team’s offense efficiently.
• Mental Toughness: Shoji remains calm under pressure, consistently performing in high-stakes situations.
• Leadership: Despite playing a defensive position, he’s often seen as a leader on the court, directing the team’s defensive strategy.
• Serving Reception: His excellent serve receive skills help the U.S. team maintain offensive pressure.

Shoji’s Volleyball Family:

Erik comes from a volleyball family. His father, Dave Shoji, is a legendary volleyball coach who led the University of Hawaii women’s volleyball team for 42 years. His brother, Kawika Shoji, is also a professional volleyball player and has been his teammate on the U.S. National Team.

Wrapping Up

These players remind us that volleyball is a sport where various physical attributes – not just height – contribute to success. Speed, agility, game intelligence, and technique are all crucial factors.

So, whether you’re tall or short, remember that with dedication and hard work, you can excel in volleyball. After all, it’s not about how high you stand, but how high you can reach!

It’s worth noting that many of these players, especially those under 6 feet tall, often specialize in positions like libero or setter, where height is less critical. However, some have defied expectations by excelling in positions typically dominated by taller players, proving that skill and determination can overcome physical disadvantages.

Their success stories serve as inspiration for younger, shorter players who dream of playing volleyball at a high level. They show that with the right mindset, training, and skills, you can compete with the best, regardless of your height.