The electrifying atmosphere of the North Arena on the outskirts of Paris reverberates with the thunderous cry of “SUPER SPIKE!” from the PA announcer. Morteza Mehrzad, clad in his red top and black trousers, sprawled on the floor with arms outstretched wide, celebrates another crushing blow that seals the rally in favor of Iran. This pivotal moment, one of his 27 points in the final game, secures Iran’s eighth Sitting Volleyball Paralympic title.
Standing tall at 8ft 1in, the second tallest man in the world, Mehrzad’s journey to sporting glory is nothing short of extraordinary. Born with gigantism, his physical stature presented challenges including the need for a custom bed extension in the Paralympic village. Despite initial struggles, his coach Hadi Rezaeigarkani, an eight-time Paralympic gold medalist, identified Mehrzad’s potential and guided him into the world of sitting volleyball.
Overcoming societal barriers and embracing his unique abilities, Mehrzad found solace and purpose in the sport. His towering presence on the court poses a formidable advantage for Team Iran, with his massive reach enabling powerful spikes that dominate the game play. Despite his imposing size, Mehrzad showcases agility and precision as he maneuvers tactically through each set, showcasing his athletic prowess.
Off the court, Mehrzad remains humble and reserved, shying away from attention and letting his performance speak for itself. His teammates view him as an integral part of their close-knit unit, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in their collective success. Coach Rezaeigarkani credits their triumph to relentless hard work and unity within the team.
As Mehrzad towers above his opponents and teammates alike, both on and off the court, his impact transcends height, embodying the spirit of determination and camaraderie that defines Iran’s Sitting Volleyball dynasty.
