BABY NEWS!
The 2012 Olympic Champion and her boyfriend who is also a volleyball player Cléber Mineiro are expecting their first child. The 26 year old, Tandara, is due to give birth later this year in September/October.
According to a source, Tandara has been assured by Coach Guimaraes that she has room to train and play for Brazil after she gives birth.
“Her family is Tandara’ priority at the moment. She will continue playing for her club team until the end of the season if all goes well. Her movements on the court may be limited but she really wants to play until the finish line. As for her career with the National Team, Coach ZRG is not closing the door on her. She still has a shot to play for the Olympics next year in Brazil if her condition meets ZRG’s criteria.”
The source also adds now that with Tandara’s pregnancy, Coach ZRG needs to find a backup opposite hitter to Sheilla Castro, who has been Brazil’s starting opposite for more than a decade.
“Natália Pereira may take this role. She is the only one player capable of playing opposite unless Coach ZRG wants to bring back Monique or even Mari but I don’t think he will.”
Tandara’s teammate Jaqueline went on a maternity leave in 2013 and made a successful comeback at the 2014 FIVB World Championship. If Jaque can do it, Tandara can do it too!
Congrats to Tandara and Cléber!
(image: FIVB)