Head coach Filipe Ferraz spoke out after Sada Cruzeiro lost the Minas Gerais Volleyball Championship title for the first time in 17 years.
Head coach Filipe Ferraz evaluated the performance of Sada Cruzeiro following a historic third-place finish in the 2026 men's state volleyball tournament in Belo Horizonte, according to information published by WEBVOLEI.
The team defeated Azulim Monte Carmelo in straight sets at the Mineirinho arena on Sunday, but the bronze medal marked the end of an era that included 16 consecutive titles between 2010 and 2025.
Addressing the media after missing the final for the first time in 17 years, Ferraz questioned the heavy burden placed on his squad and outlined plans for the upcoming national season.
Filipe Ferraz rejects pressure of historical hegemony
The elimination happened after a 3-1 defeat against Praia Clube in the tournament semifinals, halting an unprecedented winning streak in Brazilian volleyball.
Coach Filipe Ferraz acknowledged the overall frustration surrounding the result, but firmly rejected the idea that his players carried a permanent burden to win every single trophy.
In his post-match statement, Ferraz declared that the team has no obligation to win, but rather an obligation to deliver their best performance on the court.
Tactical challenges and struggles in the state tournament
Analyzing the team performance, Filipe Ferraz admitted that Sada Cruzeiro is still far from its optimal competitive level for the 2026 and 2027 season.
The technical staff pointed out specific issues regarding the serving game and defensive organization, noting that the squad looked too tense during crucial moments.
Furthermore, the team faced preparation hurdles, including player absences and positional changes at the setter role, although the coach refused to use these as excuses.
Upcoming matches in the 2026 2027 volleyball season
Despite the setback in the state competition, Sada Cruzeiro quickly shifts its focus to upcoming national tournaments under the guidance of Filipe Ferraz.
The club will face Vôlei Renata in the men's Supercopa on October 23 at the Arena São José in Santa Catarina, with live broadcast on SporTV 2.
Shortly after, the team begins its defense of the Superliga masculina title against Montes Claros on October 26 at the Ginásio Tancredo Neves in Minas Gerais.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Sada Cruzeiro lose the Minas Gerais title?
Sada Cruzeiro lost the semifinal to Praia Clube by 3 sets to 1, ending a 17-year streak of 16 consecutive titles in the Minas Gerais Volleyball Championship.
What did coach Filipe Ferraz say about the defeat?
Filipe Ferraz stated that the team does not carry an obligation to win every title, but rather an obligation to do their best and improve moving forward.
When is Sada Cruzeiro playing next in the season?
Sada Cruzeiro will face Vôlei Renata in the men's Supercopa on October 23, 2026, followed by their Superliga debut against Montes Claros on October 26.
