Another Volleywood Exclusive!
We’re so lucky to be granted an interview with one of Brazil’s best players in the 1990s: Hilma Caldeira. A two time Olympian who competed in the 1992 Olmypics and won a bronze medal in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
We saw a few matches of Hilma from the 90s and she was one of Brazil’s most trusted hitters together with Ana Moser and Marcia Fu. In our opinion, she was one of the few players who was very confident hitting from the backrow.
She played with ease and remained quiet in every match – even if her team was playing against the feisty Cuban team. We don’t remember her making a scene when Brazil and Cuba had that unforgettable melee after their 1996 Olympic semifinal match in Atlanta. For sure, you know what we’re talking about.
After the 1998 World Championship, Hilma retired from the National Team.
Fast forward today, Hilma has a few words to share…
When did you start playing volleyball for Brazil National Teams?
I started playing volleyball in 1989. I was named best player during the Girl’s Youth World Championship. A few years later I was named the best attacker in the Girl’s Junior World Championship and later in the Women’s World Championship.
Best Moments of your volleyball career?
My most memorable moment was at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, not only was it my first Olympics, it was also the first time we had qualified. I remember playing really well against Japan. It was an amazing match and we had a really good group of players who showed how strong the Brazilian Women’s Volleyball team is.
Favorite Player?
My favorite player is a great friend of mine, Mireya Luis from Cuba. She’s a very strong player and I’ve had the pleasure of playing with her in Italy in 1998 when we won Italian League title Bergamo. I was named the best attacker and Mireya was named best player. We won everything during that season and for me those were the best times playing with Kirilova, Ana Ibis Fernandes, Marlenis Costa, Bragalia Darina, Vercerkova, Helena and others.
How would you describe your life after volleyball? Are you still involved in the sport?
My life is going great, I’m studying physical education at an excellent university with hopes of becoming a professional volleyball coach. I’m also busy raising my beautiful 5‐year‐old son Kelvin who is my life, and I’m teaching him that sports are very important.
Anything else you want to share with your fans?
I’d like to thank all my fans who have followed my career throughout the years and I have always enjoyed playing my hearts out for them. Thank you and God bless you all.
Thank you Hilma for the time!
Best wishes from Volleywood and from your fans!
WATCH: Hilma and Brazil VS Cuba!
Reported by: Guille
Translated by: Gustavo and Oliver
(images from Hilma)
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