A complete guide to The Flying Elephant: Memoirs of an Olympic Champion Kindle Edition by Alexander Savin.
Whether you’re discovering, The Flying Elephant: Memoirs of an Olympic Champion Kindle Edition by Alexander Savin** for the first time or already familiar with the book, this guide covers everything you need to know about its story, themes, and why readers are talking about it.
offers readers an intimate, unfiltered look into the life of one of volleyball’s greatest middle blockers. The 1980 Olympic gold medalist shares stories from the dominant Soviet era, the sacrifices behind success, and reflections that go far beyond the court. Translated into English through a family project led by his brother Andrei Savine, the book preserves a vital piece of sports history while delivering motivation for athletes and fans alike.
Whether you’re a volleyball enthusiast, sports history buff, or someone seeking insights on discipline and resilience, this memoir stands out for its honesty and depth.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Aleksandr Borisovich Savin |
| Birthdate | July 1, 1957 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 68 |
| Height | 200 cm (6 ft 7 in) |
| Position | Middle Blocker |
| Birthplace | Taganrog, Rostov Oblast, Russia |
| Olympic Achievements | Gold (1980 Moscow), Silver (1976 Montreal) |
| Profession | Former Olympic volleyball player, coach, author |
| Book Format | Kindle Edition (English) |
| Key Collaborators | Andrei Savine (editor/translator), Julia Savine, Peter Murphy (introduction) |
Early Life and Path to Greatness
Alexander Savin was born on July 1, 1957, in Taganrog, a port city in the Soviet Union. His towering height and natural athleticism drew him to volleyball at a young age. Like many Soviet athletes of his generation, he rose through a structured system that emphasized rigorous training, discipline, and team commitment from an early stage.
By his mid-teens, Savin stood out in regional competitions. His quick reflexes and blocking ability at the net made him a standout despite the intense competition. He joined CSKA Moscow, one of the powerhouse clubs of the era, where he contributed to multiple Soviet league titles and European successes.
Olympic Glory and International Dominance
Savin made his Olympic debut at the 1976 Montreal Games as a 19-year-old. The Soviet team took silver after a hard-fought final against Poland. He played every match, gaining invaluable experience on the world stage.
Four years later, on home soil in Moscow 1980, Savin helped secure Olympic gold. The team defeated Bulgaria 3-1 in the final, with Savin playing all six matches. This victory capped a period of Soviet supremacy that included World Championships in 1978 and 1982, multiple FIVB World Cups, and six consecutive European titles.
Known as one of the best middle blockers in history, Savin combined athletic prowess with tactical intelligence. Opponents and commentators often singled him out for his court presence and ability to dominate the net. His career with the national team spanned 1975–1986, leaving a legacy that earned him induction into the Volleyball Hall of Fame in 2010.
The Story Behind “The Flying Elephant”
The book’s unusual title reflects Savin’s self-described journey—an “elephant” in size and power who learned to “fly” through dedication and technique. Far from a straightforward trophy list, the memoir weaves personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes moments from major tournaments, tributes to coaches and teammates, and candid discussions of challenges, including the pressures of elite sport in the Soviet system.
A family-driven project, the English Kindle edition involved Andrei Savine reconnecting with his half-brother and overseeing translation. Contributors include Julia Savine, Peter Murphy (who provided the introduction), and translator Alfredo Cabero. The book features rare photos and endorsements from volleyball legends such as Doug Beal, Marv Dunphy, Sergey Tetyukhin, and Vladimir Alekno.
Readers praise its reflective tone. It functions as both a sports autobiography and a broader meditation on perseverance, mentorship, and what constitutes lasting success.
Why This Memoir Resonates Today
In an age of highlight reels and short attention spans, Savin’s book offers substance. It explores the unseen hours of training, the psychological demands of competition, and the transition from athlete to coach and mentor. For aspiring players, it provides practical insights into mindset and habits. For general readers, it humanizes a figure from a different era and political context.
The Kindle edition makes it accessible worldwide, allowing fans to engage with Soviet volleyball history that might otherwise remain obscure outside specialist circles.
Source Verification
Information in this article draws from:
- Official Olympic records and Volleyball Hall of Fame profiles.
- Wikipedia and sports databases (e.g., Olympedia, Volleybox) for career statistics.
- Amazon book listings and author/publisher descriptions for memoir details.
- Public statements and posts by Andrei Savine and collaborators on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
- Verified sports journalism and historical accounts of Soviet volleyball.
All biographical and achievement facts align across multiple authoritative sources.
FAQ
Is The Flying Elephant available on Kindle?
Yes. The English edition is available as a Kindle eBook on Amazon, with options for Kindle Unlimited in some regions.
Who is Alexander Savin?
A legendary Soviet/Russian volleyball middle blocker, Olympic gold medalist (1980), and Hall of Famer known for his dominance in the 1970s and 1980s.
What makes this memoir different from other sports books?
It emphasizes personal stories, mentorship, and life lessons over pure statistics, presented through a reflective, symbolic lens.
Does the book cover only his playing career?
No. It also touches on coaching wisdom, post-career reflections, and broader themes of sacrifice and legacy.
Who translated and edited the English version?
Andrei Savine led the effort as editor and translator, with contributions from Julia Savine and Alfredo Cabero.
Is it suitable for non-volleyball fans?
Yes. The universal themes of discipline, resilience, and human memory make it engaging for anyone interested in personal development or sports history.
Conclusion
The Flying Elephant: Memoirs of an Olympic Champion Kindle edition by Alexander Savin captures more than a remarkable athletic career. It preserves the spirit of an era when Soviet volleyball set the standard and offers timeless lessons on what it takes to reach the top—and what remains after the medals are won. For fans seeking inspiration and insight, this book delivers a compelling, authentic read.
