Next up in the roster of incredible coaches that will be joining us out in Gran Canaria in the new year, is Davoud Panah! Davoud is the head coach at Deep Dish Crystal Palace and represents Team Wales internationally.
Have a look at our interview with Davoud to get to know him before meeting him out in Gran Canaria!
TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BEACH VOLLEYBALL CAREER
I studied engineering and business but soon realised it wasn't for me so I shifted my career to caching and helping others and myself grow. I did a degree in sports coaching/strength and conditioning, and then followed that path since. It's been a seven year journey and I couldn't be happier with the choices I made.
WHAT'S YOUR HISTORY WITH DEEP DISH VACATIONS?
I coached in Crystal Palace in April 2022, and that was the beginning of this epic journey. I have coached in Gran Can and Portugal this past year.
DO YOU HAVE ANY PRE-CAMP WORDS OF WISDOM FOR PLAYERS COMING OUT TO GRAN CANARIA?
My only advice is to try and figure out what works best for you and your abilities. Understand the limiting factors and try to expand upon them.
WHAT IS A LIFE-CHANGING BOOK/MOVIE/QUOTE THAT YOU HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO OTHER PEOPLE?
I advise everyone to read 'The Brain that Changes Itself' by Norman Doidge
DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE DRILL OR SKILL TO COACH?
My favourite thing to teach is arm swing, and my favourite drill is what now is called franchi's drill, super exhausting. It's a triangle defence and setting drill, where the attacker hits crossbody and wrist away from the line, the defenders have 3 touches to get the ball to the other player, very dynamic.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO AT THE GRAN CANARIA CAMP?
Quality human interaction and the sunshine.
WHY SHOULD PLAYERS OR COACHES JOIN THE DEEP DISH GRAN CANARIA CAMP NEXT YEAR?
If you are looking to join a caring family and have the best time of your life, look nowhere else but into the heart of the Deep Dish fam. Don't take my word for it, see it in people's eyes.
DO YOU HAVE AN EMBARRASSING MOMENT FROM CAMP OR THAT HAPPENED WHILE PLAYING BEACH VOLLEYBALL?
Many, but the most embarrassing moment was when I said 'Don't be too pushy with your partner' but pronounced it without the 'H'.
Davoud helps people address their injuries, extend their sport career as they age, find better solutions in the gym, and understand their body better. If you want more information, he welcomes you to DM him on Instagram at @lifeofdavoud
