Campforts (1) returns to Achel after two seasons in Genk. — © Sven Dillen
Volley-ball
Coup de théâtre at Tectum Achel, which announces the return of Brecht Campforts. The 31-year-old opposite left Achel for Genk two seasons ago, but is returning to the old nest.
The Hoeselten native played at Achel from 2017 to 2022 and helped mold the team into an established name in the Belgian top volleyball. Because his body and mind no longer wanted to go along, the construction worker went to play two steps lower at Genk, with whom he became national 2 champion this season.
“I thought about it for a long time,” says Campforts about his choice. “The team and the atmosphere at Genk were great. My leaving has nothing to do with that. I understand that my decision has been hard hit by the players, staff and board. But for the first time in my career I thought only about myself. The opportunity to play at the highest level again was too attractive to pass up. About a month and a half ago, Achel came knocking again for the first time. Initially I thought it was a crazy idea, but the more I spoke to Jan Vanvenckenray, the more convinced I became of the project.”
Campforts in action near Achel, early 2022. — © Boumediene Belbachir
Campforts, who signed a one-year agreement, will play again on a semi-professional basis in De Koekoek. “I am now self-employed. The board knows that my job comes first. We have also made agreements about that. But just because I train a little less doesn’t mean I’m going to Achel to be in the jumping corner for the entire season. I will fight for my place and especially want to guide the team back to the top six.”
Chairman Ben Schuurmans is happy with Campforts’ return: “With Brecht we are bringing in a driving force. He has a great drive and over-my-body mentality. It’s good that we were able to bring someone on board with such a positive mindset.”