Allianz Team Blog What would have become of me if I had not turned pro?

A life without volleyball is unimaginable for me, but if I had not been able to pursue a career in volleyball, I would probably have worked in the field I trained in. I have a degree in social care, which is about helping and supporting adults and children from various groups. These include people with intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, mental health problems and age-related challenges.

In 2020 I worked for a year in a care home for elderly people, just as Covid-19 was spreading. This group impressed me, and the work gave me a sense of fulfilment, because I genuinely felt that I was making a difference in the lives of these residents. Working there taught me a lot – above all how important it is to seize every opportunity and give 100 per cent. Many residents said that there were still things they would have liked to do in life but could no longer manage because of their health. This experience motivates me to give everything to reach my goals in volleyball.

After my degree in social care I would probably have continued my training to become an intensive care nurse in a hospital. I like the idea of working in a hospital because of the variety. One day you might only be giving patients their medication, but the next day you are helping people in life-threatening situations. Fortunately, this work is never done alone, but as part of a team of nurses, doctors and surgeons.

In the end I did not take that path, because I now play for SWD powervolleys Düren, in a season in which we reached the cup final. We have a team that works incredibly hard together to get the most out of this season, and I am proud to be part of it.