We reported almost 2 weeks ago that American Outside Hitter and 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist, Riley Salmon, signed on to play for Drean Bolivar, Argentina’s top ranked club team. But something went wrong with the transfer which jeopardized Riley’s debut in the Argentinian League.
We reached out to Riley’s Camp and this is the official statement they released exclusively to Volleywood:
Before the offer to play in Argentina came, Riley was playing for a team in Kuwait. His team failed to qualify for the Playoffs and Riley’s contract was mutually ended by all parties involved.
Riley went to Argentina to train with Drean Bolivar, a great club with great players, for 8 days.
While processing the transfer, Riley’s club team from Kuwait demanded $60,000 to sign his release paper in order to complete the transfer. This transaction did not push through since the Argentinian League had set a Janaury 19th deadline for any team to sign any new player/s. Both parties failed to meet the deadline.
Riley has returned to the US and leaves this Sunday to play in the Spanish League for Team Almeria.
He remains optimistic for his future and wants to end the season with a bang.
Riley deeply appreciates the love and support from his fans.
Thank you so much for this statement Mr. Riley Salmon! We appreciate your effort to give us a detailed explanation on what really happened. We wish you the best in Spain and you will forever be one of our idols.
Muchas Gracias!
(images: rileysalmonusa.com)