The countdown to PVL Season 4 of the RR Kabel Prime Volleyball League powered by Scapia has begun, and all eyes are on the Bengaluru Torpedoes, who have appointed American setter Matt West as their new captain.
With the season kicking off in Hyderabad on October 2, the Torpedoes will look to harness West’s vast international experience and leadership qualities to go one step further than their runners-up finish in Season 2. Hailing from Seattle, Washington, the soon-to-be 32-year-old West brings with him over a decade of professional volleyball experience spanning nine countries. He has featured in some of Europe’s most competitive leagues, including Germany’s Bundesliga, as well as the Netherlands, Czech Republic, and Finland. His résumé boasts multiple league titles and medals, making him one of the most seasoned international stars to feature in the PVL.
Volleyball is in his blood. West’s mother represented Peru at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, while his father was also a player. Growing up in such an environment instilled not just technical skills but also a deep understanding of the sport’s mental and tactical aspects.
Now, as he steps into the captain’s role, West is motivated by more than just results. “At this stage of my career, I’m less focused on proving my worth and more on enjoying the game and giving back,” West said. “India feels like the right place for that. The athletes here are so talented, and the influence I can have as captain is greater than it would be in Europe. With David Lee guiding us as coach and me leading on court, our goal isn’t just about chasing wins but about controlling what we can, improving every day, and building something meaningful together.”
Building a Balanced and Fearless Squad
On paper, the Torpedoes appear to have assembled a formidable roster for Season 4. West will be complemented by fellow American Jalen Penrose, an explosive attacker whose power and precision can trouble any defense. Among the Indian core are promising attackers Sethu TR and Joel Benjamin J, reliable blocker Mujeeb MC, and the experienced libero Midhunkumar Balasubramaniyan, who will anchor the team’s defensive structure.
West has already been impressed with the raw ability of his Indian teammates. “The Indian players have incredible athletic ability, the way they can attack and serve is impressive,” he noted. “What we are working on is the mindset, teaching them how to analyze situations as the game unfolds. If we can get that balance right, I believe this team can surprise a lot of people this season.”
The Bengaluru Torpedoes also continue to benefit from the presence of David Lee, a two-time Olympic medallist with the USA, as their head coach. Lee’s experience at the highest level, combined with West’s leadership on court, provides the team with a blend of tactical expertise and player-focused mentorship. For a league that has steadily grown in stature since its inception, the presence of such decorated figures highlights the PVL’s ability to attract global talent while nurturing Indian players. For the Torpedoes, it signals their intent to move beyond being finalists to becoming champions.
From Finalists to Title Contenders
The Torpedoes made waves when they reached the final of Season 2, showcasing an exciting and aggressive style of play. However, they fell just short of clinching the title. That experience, coupled with the disappointment of not replicating the feat in Season 3, has sharpened their focus ahead of the new season. With West at the helm, the team is now striving for consistency and discipline, key ingredients in bridging the gap between potential and success. “We want to play a fearless brand of volleyball,” West emphasized. “Our focus is on controlling our side of the net—executing our plays, staying calm under pressure, and supporting one another. The wins will follow if we stay true to that.”
The PVL has been instrumental in raising the profile of volleyball in India, giving young athletes a platform to test themselves against international stars. Captains like West, who bring a wealth of global experience, play a pivotal role in this ecosystem not only by leading their teams but also by mentoring local players. West believes that India is at an exciting juncture in its volleyball journey. “The talent pool is impressive,” he said. “What is needed now is consistent exposure to high-pressure situations and guidance on the mental aspects of the game. That’s where experienced internationals like myself and coaches like David Lee can make an impact.”
As the PVL gears up for another thrilling season, the Bengaluru Torpedoes enter as one of the most intriguing teams to watch. With a captain who blends tactical intelligence, leadership, and empathy, and a squad that combines explosive foreign firepower with emerging Indian talent, they are well-positioned to challenge the league’s best. For West, the season is about more than just lifting a trophy. It is about leaving behind a legacy helping Indian players grow, shaping a team culture that values process over outcome, and giving fans a brand of volleyball that excites and inspires.
As the lights turn on in Hyderabad on October 2, the Torpedoes will take the court with renewed belief. With Matt West steering the ship and David Lee orchestrating from the sidelines, this team might just deliver on their captain’s words and “surprise a lot of people.”
