Volodymyr SHEPELEV: “My childhood ended when I was thirteen”

Volodymyr SHEPELEV: “My childhood ended when I was thirteen”

In the first official fixture of the season second part Volodymyr made his debut for the main squad. So, let’s get this 19-year-old performer to know better.

- I went in for football when I was seven. I remember that day. I was doing my homework when father asked: “Will you play football tomorrow?” I agreed and the following day I went to my first training session. Everything went well and I joined Chornomorets football school.

- How come you joined Dynamo?

- The story preliminary to that transfer wasn’t very nice. I was the captain of Chornomorets team of my age. We were supposed to go to the tournament in Feodosia. My parents couldn’t afford that and I stayed at home. If I’m not mistaken, our team won that competition and after they returned coach said I wasn’t the skipper any more. I was upset as it wasn’t my choice to leave the team. One day I was about to leave for school when my dad said: “We’re going to Kyiv for a trial at Dynamo”. That’s how I stayed in Kyiv.

- You were only 13. Weren’t parents afraid to let you live in the capital?

- Frankly speaking, I didn’t want to go. I often cried as I missed my home and parents. My mom was also against that, but father insisted and I stayed. That’s when my childhood ended.

- What can you say about work under the charge of Pavlo Kikot at Dynamo school?

- Pavlo Kikot is the coach, who took me to Dynamo. I guess at that moment he was the only one, who believed in me, so I’m thankful to him for everything I’ve achieved. He had his own vision of football and didn’t like anyone to intervene into his work. His training sessions were very interesting and intense.

- When you were leaving Dynamo Academy your coach was Oleh Venhlynskyi. What did he tell you before you joined Dynamo U-19?

- Oleh Venhlynskyi worked with us for half a year. This coach knows what player needs and always says something wise. Before him our coaches were Serhiy Bezhenar and Serhiy Fedorov. They helped us win our first title. We could talk to them about anything and ask any questions. Oleh Venhlynskyi told us: “When you come to Dynamo U-19, you must fight for your future”.

- This winter you had your first training camp with Dynamo main squad. What are your impressions?

- When I found out I would go there I was really happy as I really wanted that. My impressions are great as I experienced the first team level and was told what I should work on.

- What did you feel when you found out you would be in Dynamo starting lineup?

- I wanted to prove myself I can perform on this level. I was nervous, but that’s natural. I don’t know if I’ll keep playing. I must do my best and work a lot at training sessions.

- Who’s your main fan and critic?

- I don’t really care what strangers say. I only care about the opinion of my coach and parents.

Read full version of this interview in FC Dynamo Kyiv magazine new issue (#1 (90)

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