Thomas Sammelvuo Steps Down from Canada for Family Priorities

Thomas Sammelvuo, the 48-year-old Finnish volleyball coach, has revealed the reason behind his surprising resignation as head coach of the Canadian national volleyball team. In an interview with a Polish media outlet, Sammelvuo explained his decision was deeply personal and tied to his family.

"It was an incredibly difficult decision," Sammelvuo stated. "I loved working with this team. Over two years, we built something special, achieving significant progress together. The players were incredibly motivated, creating a competitive and high-performing environment. However, the arrival of a new member in my family made me reevaluate my priorities."

Sammelvuo expressed his desire to focus on his personal life, supporting his wife and being present as a father. "I want to be a true father and witness my daughter’s growth. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I don’t want to miss," he added.

During his tenure, Sammelvuo led Canada to remarkable achievements, including qualifying for the Paris Olympics. Despite these successes, he felt it was time to step away from the demanding responsibilities of international coaching.

Sammelvuo currently coaches Asseco Resovia in Poland’s PlusLiga, allowing him to balance professional and personal life better. His decision highlights the importance of family and personal well-being, even at the peak of professional success.