We’re sad about her decision but we also support her since this is the FIRST time in 13 years Kosheleva will enjoy her summer away from volleyball.
The 2010 World Champion and 2 time Olympian has revealed that she will not play in the upcoming Volleyball Nations League which starts next month. Kosheleva also adds that she is unsure if she will compete with the national team at the Olympic Qualification Tournament nor at the World Cup both scheduled later this year.
Bottom line is her fans will NOT see her with Russia anytime soon.
In an article released by sport-express.ru, Koshe admits she doesn’t have the drive to play after a long season in Brazil and a short stint with Scandicci in the Italian League.
“I already had several conversations with the Coach Pankov. I honestly said that at the moment I am not ready. My favorite time in volleyball is with the national team. Playing for Russia is very cool. But you need to understand that I have come a long way to recovery after a serious injury (ACL tear last March 2018). And for 13 years I have not had a single year when I could breathe out. I think it’s time to devote some time to myself and recovery.
I will miss the Volleyball Nations League for sure. You need to come to the national team with great desire, energy and readiness but at the moment I have neither the strength nor the emotional drive to join them. The moment has come in my life when I need a break. Next year is the Olympics but I can only talk about the present.”
In the said interview, the 30 year old revealed that she had a good experience in Brazil under Coach Rezende despire SESC Rio missing the Semifinal Round. As for her future, she is very open to play in Italy or possible Turkey.