Türkiye’s national women’s volleyball team, known as the “Sultans of the Net,” has established itself as a powerhouse on the international stage.
With a remarkable 2023 season, highlighted by victories in the European League of Nations and the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), the team is now poised to compete at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris from July 26 to Aug. 11.
Head coach Daniele Santarelli leads a talented squad that blends seasoned veterans and promising young talents, aiming for their first Olympic medal.
Türkiye’s women’s national volleyball team composition
The 2024 Olympic roster for Türkiye’s women’s volleyball team features a mix of experienced players and rising stars.
The lineup includes:
- Setters: Cansu Ozbay, Elif Sahin
- Outside hitters: Ebrar Karakurt, Hande Baladin, Meliha Diken, Tugba Ivegin, Derya Cebecioglu
- Middle blockers: Eda Erdem Dundar (Captain), Zehra Günes, Asli Kalac
- Opposite hitter: Melissa Vargas
- Libero: Gizem Orge
- +1 Player: Beyza Arici
Eda Erdem Dundar, the team captain and an iconic middle blocker, continues to be a cornerstone of the team with her leadership and skill.
Rising star Melissa Vargas, a Cuban-born opposite who recently became eligible to represent Türkiye, adds significant firepower to the squad.
Melissa Vargas receives the title of “Most Valuable Player of the European Championship” in Brussels, Belgium, Sept. 3, 2023. (AA Photo)
Turkish women’s national volleyball team’s training, preparation
The team’s preparation for the Olympics has been thorough and intensive. They have participated in various high-stakes tournaments, including the VNL and the European Championship.
These competitions have helped the team refine their strategies and build cohesion. Head coach Daniele Santarelli, who took over the team in December 2022, has brought a new approach and fresh energy to the squad.
Under his guidance, the team aims to capitalize on their recent successes and perform at their peak in Paris.
Historical performance of Türkiye’s women’s national volleyball team
Türkiye’s women’s volleyball team has seen a rapid ascent in recent years. Historically, they have performed admirably in European and global competitions, but their recent achievements mark a new high.
The team made its Olympic debut at the 2012 London Games but did not progress past the group stage. They missed out on the 2016 Rio Olympics but returned in 2020 to Tokyo, finishing in fifth place, which is their best result to date.
In 2023, the team secured its Olympic qualification by going undefeated in the Group B tournament of the Olympic qualifiers held in Japan. They achieved impressive victories over top teams like Brazil and the host nation, Japan.
Challenges and expectations
Türkiye’s national team faces a challenging group stage at the Paris Olympics, competing in Group C against Italy, the Netherlands, and the Dominican Republic.
The match schedule is as follows:
- July 29: Türkiye vs. Netherlands at 10 a.m. (Türkiye local time)
- Aug. 1: Türkiye vs. Dominican Republic at 10 a.m. (Türkiye local time)
- Aug. 4: Türkiye vs. Italy at 10 a.m. (Türkiye local time)
These matches will test the team’s mettle, but their recent form and strong lineup give them a good chance to advance to the knockout stages and potentially secure a medal.
Players for Paris 2024
| Player Name | Position | Height (cm) | Age | Market Value ($) | Original Team | International Caps | Olympic Debut |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eda Erdem Dundar | Middle blocker | 188 | 36 | 543,500 | Fenerbahce | 300+ | No |
| Melissa Vargas | Opposite | 193 | 24 | 815,250 | Fenerbahce | 50+ | Yes |
| Zehra Gunes | Middle blocker | 197 | 24 | 652,200 | VakifBank | 100+ | Yes |
| Gizem Orge | Libero | 168 | 31 | 217,400 | Eczacibasi Vitra | 120+ | No |
| Cansu Ozbay | Setter | 182 | 27 | 489,150 | VakifBank | 130+ | Yes |
| Hande Baladin | Outside hitter | 189 | 26 | 380,450 | Galatasaray | 110+ | Yes |
| Meliha Ismailoglu | Outside hitter | 185 | 30 | 326,100 | Fenerbahce | 140+ | No |
The Sultans of the Net have a massive fanbase
The Sultans of the Net enjoy immense support from Turkish fans, known for their passionate and vocal backing. This support is a significant morale booster for the team, both at home and abroad.
Social media platforms are flooded with messages of encouragement, and the team’s matches are expected to draw large audiences. This enthusiastic backing reflects the pride and hope the nation has placed in their volleyball team.
Türkiye’s national women’s volleyball team heads to Paris with high hopes and strong momentum. Led by experienced players and fueled by passionate fan support, the team aims to secure their first Olympic medal. Their recent victories and rigorous preparation position them as strong contenders at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
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