Hande Baladın: A Rising Star in Turkish Volleyball

Hande Baladın, born on September 1, 1997, is a prominent Turkish professional volleyball player, making a significant mark in the world of volleyball. From her early days in youth and junior teams to her current role as an opposite spiker for the national team and Eczacıbaşı Dynavit, Baladın’s journey is a tale of dedication and triumph. Let’s delve into the details of her personal and professional life, exploring her achievements and contributions to the sport.

Personal Information

Nickname: Handan, Baladinos
Nationality: Turkish
Born: September 1, 1997 (Age: 26)
Birthplace: Kütahya, Turkey
Height: 190 cm (6 ft 3 in)
Spike Height: 315 cm (124 in)
Block Height: 305 cm (120 in)

Volleyball Information

Position: Outside Spiker
Current Club: Eczacıbaşı Dynavit
Number: 7

Career Highlights

Club Career

For the 2014–15 season, Baladın was loaned out to Sarıyer Belediyespor, a pivotal experience that contributed to her growth as a player. However, her breakthrough moment came with Eczacıbaşı Vitra, where she clinched the gold medal at the 2016 FIVB Volleyball Women’s Club World Championship.

Baladın continued to shine, adding several more accolades to her club career, including a bronze medal in the 2016-17 CEV Champion League and a championship title in the 2017-18 CEV Cup.

International Stint

Baladın’s international journey began in July 2011 when she joined the Turkey girls’ youth national team. Her early participation in the 2011 Balkan Championships laid the foundation for a promising international career.

Notably, she secured a bronze medal with the national team at the 2013 Girls’ Youth European Volleyball Championship, where she was also recognized as the “Best Blocker.”

Awards and Achievements

Club Achievements

2016 Club World Championship: Champion, with Eczacibasi Vitra
2016-17 CEV Champion League: Bronze Medal, with Eczacibasi Vitra
2017-18 CEV Cup: Champion, with Eczacibasi Vitra
2017-18 Turkish Cup: Runner-Up, with Eczacibasi Vitra
2017-18 Turkish League: Runner-Up, with Eczacibasi
2019 Spor Toto Champion’s Cup (Turkish Super Cup): Champion, with Eczacibasi Vitra
2019 Club World Championship: Runner-Up, with Eczacibasi Vitra
2020 AXA Sigorta Champions Cup (Turkish Super Cup): Champion, with Eczacibasi Vitra
2021-22 CEV Cup: Champion, with Eczacibasi Dynavit

Individual Accolades

2013 Girls’ Youth European Volleyball Championship: Best Blocker
2017 U23 World Championship: Best Outside Spiker, Most Valuable Player

National Team Achievements

2013 Girls’ Youth European Volleyball Championship: Bronze Medal
2015 FIVB Volleyball Women’s U23 World Championship: Silver Medal
2017 European Championship: Bronze Medal
2018 Nations League: Silver Medal
2019 European Championship: Silver Medal
2021 Nations League: Bronze Medal
2021 European Championship: Bronze Medal
2023 Nations League: Gold Medal
2023 European Championship: Gold Medal

Conclusion

Hande Baladın’s journey from a youth player to an international volleyball star is a testament to her talent and determination. Her list of achievements is impressive, showcasing her prowess on both the national and international stages. As she continues to contribute to the sport, Baladın remains a source of inspiration for aspiring volleyball players worldwide.