Haldane impressed by new British team-mates

GREAT Britain's superstar signing Jason Haldane insists he likes what he sees despite watching his new side crash to a double-header defeat to Australia.

Haldane, 37, who represented Canada between 1992 and 2004, qualifies to play for Great Britain, courtesy of his English-born father.

His appearances against Australia were his first international matches for five years, having been overlooked by the Canadian Olympic team for Athens 2004.

But as Great Britain pushed the Asian champions to a fifth-set in their second encounter, Haldane is convinced the future is bright for Team GB.

"I know volleyball is not currently a massive sport in Great Britain and I knew relatively little about the squad before I joined," he said.

"But my first impressions have been excellent and it's been a really pleasant surprise to see the quality and potential we have here. 

"We are already going in the right direction and while it was disappointing to lose to Australia, to come so close to beating one of the top sides in the world in the second match was a really brave performance and an achievement in itself.

"It gives us enormous hope for the future."

Haldane has played professionally in France, Italy and Belgium and has a 2001 European Champions League winners' medal to his name.

Great Britain performance director Kenny Barton has spoken of his belief that Haldane's choice to switch allegiances was a massive shot in the arm for Team GB's London 2012 hopes.

And Haldane is determined to use all of his experience to guide his new team to the Olympic Promised Land.

"Physically the guys are in terrific shape and we can definitely compete on that level. But technically, there is naturally always room for improvement," added Haldane. 

"Personally, I am just hoping to use my leadership skills and experience to lead by example and help take this young team to a higher level.

"If I can fulfil my dream of playing in the Olympics in 2012 and improving the image of the sport in this country at the same time, then I will feel I have achieved what I set out to at the start of this journey."

The GB men's team now start their league series campaign against with a match against current European Champions Spain in Valladolid on June 5.