Volleyball players remember Bachman: 'He was just a great man'

U.S. volleyball player Robyn Ah Mow-Santos, an Olympic teammate of Elisabeth Bachman in 2004, said the team was inspired to play well in Saturday's victory over Japan to honor the Bachman family.

By Rachel Blount, Star Tribune

Last update: August 10, 2008 - 1:41 PM

U.S. volleyball player Robyn Ah Mow-Santos, an Olympic teammate of Elisabeth Bachman in 2004, said the team was inspired to play well in Saturday's victory over Japan to honor the Bachman family. They will play Cuba on Monday.

"(Todd Bachman) was one of my closest friends,'' said Ah Mow-Santos. "I lost my mom in February, and (the Bachman family) were there for me. Our hearts go out to them."

Stacy Sykora, another U.S. player, said the team was sleeping when Bachman was killed. They were awakened by team staff and summoned to a meeting, where they were informed of Bachman's death.

"You have to understand what (Elisabeth Bachman) is for USA Volleyball,'' Sykora said. "She is like the best person in the U.S. volleyball world.

"He was just a great man. I have not just one memory, but a million memories.''

Wang Wei, executive vice president of the Beijing Olympic organizing committee, said in a press conference today that Beijing remains a safe city. He said China's deputy foreign minister and the Chinese minister of health have visited the Bachman family at the hospital to express condolences and ensure they were receiving the best care.

Wang said he believed security was sufficient at Olympic venues, but it would be increased at tourist attractions in Beijing.

"We are living in a world where surprises do happen,'' Wang said. "On the other hand, we'll reassure you nothing like this will happen again. Some security checks have been made at these scenic spots to make sure no sharp weapons can be brought into the area.''