Representing the senior Turkish Women’s National Team was the goal Defne Başyolcu had worked towards since childhood.
Born into a volleyball family, the 19-year-old had already made her mark in Türkiye’s youth national team programme, competing on the international stage and developing into one of the country’s most promising young players. A call-up to the senior squad brought her into an environment filled with some of the sport’s biggest names, creating opportunities to learn while fulfilling an ambition she had carried for years.
“Being here was my childhood dream,” Başyolcu said. “I’m really happy that I’ve been able to make it come true. When the first message arrived, I was very excited. It was such a wonderful feeling, and I was so happy.”
Earning a place in the squad was only part of what made the moment special. Being around established national team players gave Başyolcu an opportunity to observe first-hand the standards, habits and mindset required at the highest level.
“My first thought was about being here,” she said. “I thought it would be a very important experience for me, and it really is turning out that way. Every minute I spend with my big sisters is a learning opportunity for me. That’s why I was so happy.”
Training alongside some of the most experienced players in the game has given Başyolcu plenty to learn from, but the example set by Türkiye captain Eda Erdem stands out.
A fixture of the national team for more than a decade, Erdem’s leadership and the way she supports her teammates have made a strong impression on the young outside hitter.
“Eda’s presence on the court, her leadership of the team, and her ability to look after and support everyone on the team are truly qualities that make her a great role model for me,” Başyolcu said.
The emotions that came with wearing the national team jersey proved just as memorable as the call-up itself.
Representing Türkiye had always been the goal, but stepping onto the court with the crescent and star on her shoulders gave the moment a significance that is difficult to put into words.
“When I first wore the jersey of the Turkish National Team, I was truly very happy and deeply emotional,” she said. “Carrying that jersey with the crescent and star on my shoulders is a tremendous source of pride for me.”
“Representing Türkiye, my beloved country, in this role had a profound impact on me. I would say it’s one of those feelings everyone should experience at least once. Getting goosebumps and feeling that sense of pride was truly unforgettable.”
Looking back on her own journey, Başyolcu knows that setbacks are part of every athlete’s development. What matters most, she believes, is staying committed to the goal.
“I think they should work very hard,” Başyolcu said. “They should never stop working and never give up. Good things don’t always happen to us.”
“No matter what we go through, whether good or bad, I believe that when we stay focused on a goal, we should never give up until we achieve it.”
Reaching the senior national team was a milestone Başyolcu had worked towards for years. Now, she is focused on continuing to learn from those around her and making the most of the opportunity to wear the colours of Türkiye.
This World Volleyball Day on July 7, celebrate the dream that started your volleyball journey. Share the moments that have made you proud to be part of the game using #WorldVolleyballDay.
