Deniz Uyanık: "I'm Just as Excited as in My First Year"

Brazil will host the 2026 FIVB Nations League (VNL) from June 3 to June 8. Deniz Uyanık, a 24-year-old volleyball player, spoke at the media day held at the TVF Burhan Felek Volleyball Hall. Uyanık, who is in her second year with the national team, expressed her gratitude to the coaches for giving her a second chance. "I'm just as excited as I was in my first year," she said, adding, "I'm very happy. I want to capitalize on this opportunity this year."

VNL Goals and Team Chemistry

Uyanık, wearing the star and crescent emblem, discussed her goals for the VNL. "Our goal is to win the trophy and medals, but I also believe it's important to enjoy the game and have fun on the court. The team is quite new, and we are just starting to get to know each other. I hope we can develop great chemistry as a team and play happily and enjoyably on the court."

The young player also reflected on her achievements with VakıfBank. "This was a very rotational season for VakıfBank. It can be quite challenging at times. For example, you play one match and don't play the next two... But it keeps you sharp. Every new match, you work hard in training to be on that court. We had a great season with three trophies (CEV Champions League, Sultans League, and Kupa Volley). I am very proud of my team. I hope we can continue in the same way in the future."

Preparation for VNL

The Turkish national team will participate in the AeQuilibrim Cup in Italy from May 22 to May 24 as part of their preparation for the 2026 FIVB Nations League. Turkey will face Italy, Serbia, and Poland in the tournament. The match schedule is as follows:

• May 22: Turkey vs. Poland at 18:00
• May 23: Italy vs. Turkey at 22:00
• May 24: Turkey vs. Serbia at 18:00

Türkiye'nin voleybolcu Deniz Uyanık, 2026 FIVB Milletler Ligi'ne olan heyecanını ve takım kimyasını geliştirmek için neler yaptığını anlattı.