Sofia Baldo plays beyond her years

Sofia Baldo made her international mark at just 14, competing for Argentina at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship in Serbia. A year later, the outside hitter is showing that early breakthrough was no exception, leading the U17 team as captain at the FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship in Chile.

In Serbia, Baldo became a regular in the U19 lineup and finished the World Championship with 100 points. Her biggest performances included 24 points against the Dominican Republic and 25 against Germany.

In Chile, Baldo has continued to be a major part of Argentina’s attack while also serving as captain. She has scored in double figures in each of the team’s first five matches, including 20 points against Croatia to close the preliminary round.

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Representing Argentina at such a young age carry meaning beyond what Baldo does on the court.

“Representing Argentina means a great deal to me. It is a huge honor and a responsibility, especially at my age,” Baldo said. “I feel very proud to wear the national team jersey and to know that I am representing my country. It also motivates me to keep working hard and to give my best every time I step onto the court.”

Her path to the national team began in Sastre, Santa Fe Province, where she developed through the youth ranks at Club Atlético Sastre. Before the world championships and national team selections, it was the energy of volleyball and the experience of being part of a team that drew her to the sport.

“I fell in love with volleyball because I loved the energy of the game and being part of a team,” Baldo said. “I enjoy competing, learning new things and sharing every moment with my teammates. What keeps me motivated is knowing that there is always something new I can improve and that all the effort can help me become a better player.”

Her family and coaches have been part of that progress, from her early years in Sastre to representing Argentina at consecutive world championships.

“My biggest influences have been my family and my coaches,” Baldo said. “They have always supported and encouraged me to keep going, even when things get tough. The most important lesson they taught me is to never give up, to trust the process and to always give my best.”

Baldo’s own assessment of her game remains measured, particularly when it comes to the areas she still wants to improve.

“What I am most proud of is my determination,” Baldo said. “When I really want something, I work hard to achieve it and try not to give up. I am still working on having more confidence and being more consistent on the court, especially during difficult moments.”

Baldo turns 16 on Aug. 18, and her two World Championship appearances have already given her experience at different age levels and with different responsibilities in the Argentine national team program. Her goals, however, extend beyond volleyball at the junior level.

“My dream is to keep growing as a player and, one day, to represent Argentina at the highest level,” Baldo said. “I would love to play in major competitions and achieve great things with my team. Above all, I want to be remembered as a hardworking, passionate and supportive teammate who always gave her all for the team.”

Quick links:
FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship
FIVB Junior World Champs Instagram
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