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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.
The 2024 Olympic roster for Türkiye’s women’s volleyball team features a mix of experienced players and rising stars.
The lineup includes:
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
Player Name
Position
Height (cm)
Age
Market Value (USD)
Original Team
International Caps
Olympic Participation
Asli Kalac
Middle Blocker
185
28
271,750
Turk Hava Yolları (THY)
60+
Paris 2024
Beyza Arici
(+1 player)
Middle Blocker
188
28
217,400
Eczacibasi Vitra
40+
Paris 2024
Cansu Ozbay
Setter
182
27
489,150
VakifBank
130+
Tokyo 2020, Paris 2024
Derya Cebecioglu
Outside Hitter
185
23
195,660
VakifBank
30+
Paris 2024
Ebrar Karakurt
Opposite
194
24
598,500
Igor Gorgonzola Novara
80+
Tokyo 2020
Eda Erdem Dundar
Middle Blocker
188
36
543,500
Fenerbahce
300+
London 2012, Tokyo 2020, Paris 2024
Elif Sahin
Setter
180
23
163,050
Eczacibasi Vitra
30+
Paris 2024
Gizem Orge
Libero
168
31
217,400
Eczacibasi Vitra
120+
Paris 2024
Hande Baladin
Outside Hitter
189
26
380,450
Galatasaray
110+
Tokyo 2020, Paris 2024
Ilkin Aydin
Outside Hitter
184
23
217,400
Galatasaray
50+
Paris 2024
Meliha Diken
Outside Hitter
186
30
326,100
Fenerbahce
70+
None
Melissa Vargas
Opposite
193
24
815,250
Fenerbahce
50+
Paris 2024
Zehra Gunes
Middle Blocker
197
24
652,200
VakifBank
100+
Tokyo 2020, Paris 2024
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.
2 min read
