The history of international volleyball is filled with towering figures, but few cast a shadow as long or as influential as Alexander Savin. Known as the “Great Wall” of the Soviet Union, Savin’s career redefined the middle blocker position and helped propel his team to the pinnacle of world sports. In his compelling book, The Flying Elephant: Memoirs of an Olympic Champion, Savin offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the grit, gold, and grind of elite competition. “The Flying Elephant Memoirs of an Olympic Champion Kindle Edition Alexander Savin“
For fans of sports history or those seeking inspiration through the Kindle Edition of this memoir, the narrative provides more than just a recap of match scores. It is a study of the psychological and physical discipline required to stay at the top of a grueling sport during a highly politicized era of international athletics.
Who Was Alexander Savin?
Before diving into the memoirs, it is essential to understand the man behind the moniker “The Flying Elephant.” Standing at nearly 6’7″, Savin was the cornerstone of the Soviet Union’s dominance in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
He wasn’t just tall; he was incredibly agile. His ability to read an opponent’s attack and hang in the air—seemingly defying gravity—earned him his unique nickname. Throughout his career, Savin amassed an enviable collection of hardware, including:
- Olympic Gold: Moscow 1980
- World Championships: Two-time winner (1978, 1982)
- European Championships: Multiple titles between 1975 and 1985
- FIVB World Cup: Two-time gold medalist
Inside “The Flying Elephant” Memoirs
The Kindle Edition of The Flying Elephant serves as a digital bridge to a different era. Savin’s writing style is direct and honest, stripping away the polish often found in modern athlete biographies to reveal the raw reality of Soviet-era training camps.
The Physical Toll of Excellence
One of the most striking elements of the memoir is Savin’s description of the “CVD” (Central Volleyball Department) training regimens. Readers learn about the relentless hours spent in the gym, the emphasis on vertical jump training, and the scientific approach to blocking that Savin perfected.
Navigating the Political Landscape
Writing about a career that spanned the Cold War, Savin doesn’t shy away from the pressures of representing the USSR. The memoir touches upon the heartbreak of the 1984 Olympic boycott and the immense pressure to win at home during the 1980 Moscow Games. This adds a layer of depth that transforms the book from a “sports story” into a historical document.
Technical Mastery: The Savin Style
Alexander Savin was a pioneer of the “glide” and quick-attack transitions that are now standard in modern volleyball. The memoir spends significant time explaining his mental approach to the game. He viewed the net not just as a physical barrier, but as a chessboard where he had to outthink the setter.
Statistical Impact and Career Highlights
To understand why Savin is considered one of the greatest of the 20th century, we can look at his competitive milestones compared to the standard of the era.
| Achievement Category | Details/Years | Impact on Volleyball |
| Olympic Dominance | 1976 Silver, 1980 Gold | Solidified USSR as a global powerhouse. |
| Hall of Fame | Inducted in 2010 | Recognized as one of the best players of the 20th century. |
| The “Savin” Block | Late 70s technique | Revolutionized hand positioning for middle blockers. |
| World Cup MVP | 1977 & 1981 | Proved individual brilliance within a team structure. |
Why Read the Kindle Edition?
In the digital age, accessibility is key. The Kindle Edition of The Flying Elephant allows readers to engage with Savin’s story through several modern conveniences:
- Portability: Carry the history of Soviet volleyball in your pocket, making it easy to read during commutes or travel.
- Searchability: For students of the game or sports researchers, being able to search for specific matches or technical terms is invaluable.
- Instant Access: Unlike rare physical copies of older sports memoirs, the digital edition is available immediately for a global audience.
Lessons for Modern Athletes
Beyond the anecdotes of victory, Savin’s memoirs are a masterclass in resilience. He discusses the injuries that threatened his career and the mental fatigue of staying motivated after achieving every possible accolade in the sport.
For young athletes, his “Flying Elephant” persona is a reminder that size is only an advantage if paired with relentless work ethic and intelligence. He emphasizes that being an Olympic champion is a lifestyle, not just a result of a single game.
Key Takeaways from the Book:
- Mental Fortitude: How to handle the immense pressure of a home Olympic Games.
- Team Chemistry: The complex dynamics of a high-pressure national team.
- Legacy: What it means to give back to the sport after the cheering stops.
FAQs: The Flying Elephant & Alexander Savin
Is this book suitable for someone who doesn’t know much about volleyball? Yes. While there are technical discussions about the sport, the memoir is primarily a human-interest story about dedication, cultural history, and the pursuit of excellence.
What does the title “The Flying Elephant” signify? It was a nickname given to Savin by his teammates and the media. It captured the contradiction of his massive, powerful frame and his light, airy jumping ability.
Does Alexander Savin discuss his rivals in the book? Savin provides great insight into the legendary battles between the USSR and teams like the USA (led by Karch Kiraly) and Brazil, offering a respectful but competitive perspective on his opponents.
Is the Kindle Edition translated well? The English translation for the Kindle Edition has been praised for maintaining Savin’s authentic voice while making the historical context clear for Western readers.
Are there photos included in the digital version? Most digital editions include archival photographs of Savin in action, though the quality may vary depending on your Kindle device’s screen.
Final Thoughts
The Flying Elephant: Memoirs of an Olympic Champion by Alexander Savin is more than just a trip down memory lane. It is a vital piece of sports literature that captures the essence of a bygone era in volleyball. Savin’s story is a testament to what can be achieved when raw talent is refined by an iron will.
Whether you are a coach looking for tactical inspiration, a historian interested in the Soviet sports machine, or a reader who loves a good “underdog-to-champion” arc, Savin’s memoirs are an essential addition to your digital library. Through this Kindle Edition, the legacy of the “Great Wall” continues to inspire a new generation of athletes to take flight.
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