Bích Tuyền Returns at the Hoa Lư - Bình Điền Cup 2026

The Hoa Lư - Bình Điền Volleyball Cup 2026 officially commenced on March 18, marking the start of the new season for Vietnamese volleyball. Beyond the professional developments, the highlight of the opening day was the special appearance of Nguyễn Thị Bích Tuyền.

One year ago, at this same competition, Bích Tuyền was the most prominent name. With powerful spikes and explosive performance, she played a major role in helping the ancient capital's team successfully defend their championship title.

However, at this year's tournament, that image has completely changed.

In LPBank Ninh Bình's opening match against Thanh Hóa, fans no longer saw Bích Tuyền leaping into the air for thunderous attacks. Instead, she quietly sat on the coaching bench beside Kim Huệ, observing the game.

This transition was not only surprising but also evoked many emotions. A talent at the peak of her career stepped back behind the boundary line, closing her journey of high-level competition.

After a long absence and facing many ups and downs, Bích Tuyền's decision to return has ended all speculation about her future: to continue playing or retire. The answer is clear. Bích Tuyền has essentially bid farewell to the professional arena to begin a new chapter in the role of assistant coach.

This is not an easy choice, especially for an athlete still capable of top-level performance. But for Bích Tuyền, it might be the most suitable path after the past events.

Bích Tuyền joining the coaching staff of LPBank Ninh Bình is expected to bring a new vitality to the team. Not only does she understand the operational system well, but she also grasps the psychology of athletes exceptionally, which is particularly important in a high-level competitive environment. From another perspective, Bích Tuyền could become a bridge between the coaching staff and young hitters.

On the court, LPBank Ninh Bình still demonstrated the strength of a championship contender. In the opening match, the home team overcame Thanh Hóa with a 3-1 score, starting their title defense journey smoothly. In another match, VTV Bình Điền Long An also secured an impressive 3-0 victory over Hanoi, affirming their status as one of the top teams.

On March 19, the tournament continues with two notable matches: VietinBank faces VTV Bình Điền Long An (14:00) and the Information Corps – 19th Corps confronts Thanh Hóa (18:00). The Hoa Lư - Bình Điền Cup 2026 runs from March 18 to 23, featuring 12 strong teams in both men's and women's categories.

The men's category includes teams such as LPBank Ninh Bình, Border Guard-MB, Military Sports Port, Ho Chi Minh City Police, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. Meanwhile, the women's category sees competition from LPBank Ninh Bình, VTV Bình Điền Long An, VietinBank, Hanoi-Tasco Auto, Information Corps – 19th Corps, and Thanh Hóa.