What does moving
into your new arena mean for you?
One of the most important elements that makes this season special is moving
into our new arena. With its modern facilities, large capacity, and energy, we
now have a much stronger home. We tried to create an environment where players
feel at home when they arrive. I can say that the players who started the
season really liked the arena.
Sustainability in sports has always been valuable to us; the facilities we now
have will also play an important role for the sustainability of our youth
system. We are also very happy because we have not only developed our match
arena but also expanded the space for our youth teams. With our practice gym
that includes 3 courts and the accommodation opportunities we provide for youth
players, we have taken important steps for our youth system as well. We are
looking forward to turning this place into a real home together with our fans.
What does it bring
you when youth players take part in A team practices?
Because of the national team period, at the beginning of the season our young
players are included in A team practices. This is a very big opportunity for
them; they learn from experienced names and at the same time our technical
staff has the chance to follow them closely. This process is very valuable both
for their development and for the energy they add to the team.
Can you give an
update on your captain Simge’s health status?
Simge’s treatment process is going quite well. After a short period with a cast
following surgery, she moved into rehabilitation. She will soon slowly start
ball practices. Her leadership and energy are very valuable to us, and we
believe she will return to court completely in the shortest time.
How do you evaluate
the situation of your technical staff and your coach’s work during the summer?
Our coach came directly to Istanbul after the national matches. His family is
here as well, which makes the adaptation process easier. We believe he had a
productive summer with the German national team. The vision and volleyball
system he brings will make a great contribution to us. The other members of his
staff will also join us next week.
How is Kathryn
Boden’s training going?
After leaving behind a difficult year, Kathryn has been continuing her
individual practices in the U.S. in a very disciplined way: she is working to
enter the season as strong as possible both physically and mentally. She will
be joining us very soon, and we are looking forward to seeing her back in our
team.
What is your plan
for the players returning from the national team?
We will give our national team players, who have had a long and intense summer,
a period of rest. It is very important for us that they start the season
healthier and more motivated. Afterwards, when the whole squad comes together,
we will make the most of the time until the first match to establish our new
system.
Your fixture begins
with strong opponents, how do you evaluate it?
Indeed, we are starting the season with tough matches. Many teams in our league
have built ambitious squads with serious budgets. In the first half of the
season, we will host these strong opponents in our own arena. With the support
of our fans, we aim to overcome these challenges and start the season in a good
way.
How do you evaluate
the national team’s success?
The international achievements of our national team are a great source of pride
for all of us. We believe that the experiences our players gain in these
top-level tournaments will also provide very positive contributions at the club
level.
In general, what
are your expectations for the new season?
We believe we will move step by step towards our goals. We are in a new
structure, and this requires time and patience. Our primary goal is to create a
team identity that always fights, never gives up, and offers enjoyable
volleyball to the fans. The support of our fans is extremely valuable to us.
Our greatest wish is to have a healthy season that will be remembered with
pride.
