Now, almost 10 years later, Zingel is captain of the Volleyroos and considered to be one of Australia's greatest ever players.

From Kiama Downs, Zingel leads the team in a two-game series against Canada at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre this weekend.

The two matches against Canada are the final games of three home round matches for the Volleyroos in the 2014 World League, which is being held in Australia for the first time this year.

"I had absolutely no interest in volleyball whatsoever," Zingel said.

"I was into basketball and tennis, and didn't know anything about the sport, but I got selected for NSW, and within three months I was playing for Australia and had a scholarship."

Zingel says he is excited to be back home playing in Australia, as the majority of his time is spent in Europe, where volleyball is the second most popular sport behind football.

"It's amazing to be able to come home and play in a major tournament such as this," he said. "I don't get to come home all that often, so to be able to play in front of Australian crowds is fantastic."

Australia's previous rounds in the tournament saw them beaten 2-0 by Belgium in Adelaide, followed by a close-fought contest in Canberra against Finland, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

Although the Volleyroos have a few players out with injury this weekend, Zingel expects the Australians to put on a good show against the Canadians.

"It's going to be tough given we have a few players out, but if we find our rhythm we should be okay," he added.