The third president of the ASI volleyball club, Martin Rabesalama, reveals the keys to success and the inner workings of a club that boasts twenty-two national titles across all categories.
How do you manage to survive in this era as a civilian club?
Founded in 2009, our club now includes all categories, from U13s to adults in the first division. We had to implement strong coordination and delegate responsibilities for the management of each category, while ensuring internal discipline is respected. Player membership fees are our primary source of funding. Previously set at 20,000 ariary per player annually, we had to increase them to 40,000 ariary following a decision made by the general assembly for this season. These fees help cover at least the championship entry fees, which amount to 300,000 ariary for D1 and slightly less for other categories. Coaches cover the refereeing fees, set at 10,000 ariary per match. This organization also has a positive aspect: it empowers parents and players, involves them more in the club’s life, and pushes them to strive harder for victory.
Can you give us an idea of your main expenses?
We invest heavily in provincial championships for transport, accommodation, catering, and refreshments, in addition to entry fees. Take the upcoming U13 and U17 national championships in Fianarantsoa as an example. For a delegation of twenty people, including coaches, we need 5 million ariary for ten days. Sometimes this budget reaches 6 million. Delegation members cover expenses of about 250,000 ariary per person. Usually, parents propose a family-owned guest house at a lower cost. It is also feasible to negotiate a large hotel room. We solicit providers to handle catering. For transport, we rent a taxi-brousse. For refreshments, we have a partnership at a reduced cost.
After twenty national titles, what are your next objectives?
For years, our ambition was to surpass the GNVB. Now, we are aiming higher: to make history at the next Zone 7 Club Championship, win the title, or at least achieve the best possible performance. But first, we must succeed in the Analamanga and Madagascar championships. That is only the sporting aspect. We focus primarily on education and discipline on the court and in life in general, starting with punctuality. Discipline is the strength of a team. During national service, we were taught that “discipline is the strength of armies.” Volleyball is not just a sport. For us, practicing it is also a school for success in life.
Can you provide statistics on the club’s members?
We currently have two hundred and seventy registered members across all categories, excluding those in the volleyball school. Newcomers first go through the school to work on fundamentals before joining the various categories. Eight coaches provide guidance. They have the potential and experience, as proven by the results obtained so far, while remaining humble. We encourage young people to join us. As a financially small club, we cannot yet pay transfer fees, which sometimes amount to 1,600,000 ariary or even more. It is up to the player who wants to join the club to settle these fees.
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-27 07:00:40 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/martin-rabesalama-la-discipline-est-la.html