It’s about time girlfriend!
The last time she played for Serbia was almost 2 years ago when she and her amazing teammates won the 2011 CEV Women’s European Championship in front of their home fans.
After that, she decided to take a break due to a foot injury which prevented her from competing at the 2012 Olympics. During her hiatus from volleyball, Jelena gave birth to her first baby (boy) named Aleksa.
Fast forward to today, she wants to resume her volleyball career with the national team and her club team, Vakifbank.
The 31 year old shares…
“I tried to make a comeback last year, before the Olympic Games, but I couldn’t. The pain in my heel was to strong, and I needed further treatment. Non-stop playing for the clubs and the national team finally caught up and I needed a break, which I got while I was pregnant, so it was at a right moment. The break felt good, I healed my injury, I got Aleksa, and now it is time for new challenges.”
Nikolic has been training for the last two months.
“I couldn’t train for three months, because of the operation during my delivery. Then I started training under Vladimir Bankovic’s supervision every day, sometimes even two times a day, and I am getting back in shape. I was also active during my pregnancy, I had yoga classes, did exercises, and everything else that helped me.”
As for her return…
“I want to get back in shape, to help my national team and my club. It was similar in 2011, the year we all gladly remember, when I operated my tendon and also had to train to get back my best form. It took a lot of effort, and I know what awaits me.
I think I can compete with the other girls for a spot in the team. We will see if I will be prepared. I think it’s more realistic that I get to a good shape for the European Championship than for the Grand Prix, but you never know.”
She also mentioned that she is very excited to wear her #12 jersey again & compete in the Turkish League and Champions League with Vakifbank.
Welcome Back Jelena!