Neslihan Darnel’s performance is key to Turkey’s success at the FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix
One of the reasons why Turkey has been playing at a high-level is because of Neslihan Darnel – the feisty left-handed hitter. Darnel is touted as the Iron Lady and one of the most prominent figures in Turkish volleyball.
Darnel is honoured to be the face of the Turkish team and does not mind having this responsibility.
“I’m very proud,” Darnel said “I’ve been playing for the national team since 2000. It’s a big responsibility but I can deal with that. No problem.”
Darnel takes this responsibility seriously and does not fail when it comes to her performance in every match. In their match against Thailand, she helped her team by scoring 27 points from 21 attacks, 5 blocks and a service ace.
Darnel significantly creates an opportunity for her team to leap forward and make positive feats.
“It was a good game for us, we won 3-1 but we didn’t play (that) good so we should improve day by day (on) our performance,” Darnel said.
Their experience in the Wold Grand Prix is a good way to prepare them for the Olympics.
“I believe we are going to take a medal here, and for the Olympics, this is a very good test,” Darnel added.
Turkey’s qualification to the London 2012 Olympic Games is the team’s biggest achievement and Darnel could not hide her excitement.
“The Olympics is every athlete’s dream and now my dreams have come true,” Darnel said. “I’m very excited, I can’t wait to go to London – we are counting the days. I am very happy.”
