Stars align on future superstar Helena in Women’s U21 bronze win in Surabaya

Helena Wenk Hoengen has found her place on the world stage, and at just 20 years old she is already carrying the weight of expectation. The 199-centimeter outside hitter delivered another standout performance at the FIVB Women’s U21 World Championship in Surabaya, guiding Brazil to a bronze medal that followed the one she earned in 2023.

“I am very happy because this is the second time I have played this tournament and the second time I have won a medal,” she said after Brazil’s 3-1 win against Bulgaria. Her 23 points in the match, built from 17 attacks, four blocks and two aces, showcased her all-around strength and composure in an intense battle.

• Watch the FIVB Volleyball Women’s U21 World Championship on VBTV

Helena grew into the game as one of Brazil’s tallest prospects, a physical presence who could impact every phase of play. Her height, coupled with her reach and timing, makes her a constant threat at the net while her growing confidence has begun to shape her into a leader. At this championship, she finished with 120 points across nine matches, averaging more than 13 per outing and proving that she could carry Brazil in crucial moments.

The mindset behind her game, Helena explained, comes from a simple but powerful lesson instilled by her coach. “I need to think like a winner. My coach tells me this all the time. I work hard, I always try to find the best results, and I do everything I can to help my teammates,” she said.

That mentality carried her through long weeks of preparation and into a tournament where Brazil’s medal hopes often rested on her shoulders.

Recognition as one of the brightest young stars in Brazilian volleyball has followed her rise. With it, she admits, comes pressure. “It is not easy because there is a lot of weight to carry, but I train hard every day, and I know I can count on the staff to support me. I still have a lot to improve,” she said.

Helena has already begun to bridge the gap between youth and senior play. She values the chance to compete extensively at the U21 level while drawing from her training alongside established names. “I can play more here than with the seniors, but I can use what I learn with the senior team to help my teammates and support our growth in these matches,” she said.

Her immediate future with the senior national team remains undecided, but her ambition is clear. “I want to support all the players who are training with the team and help us reach another medal and a strong result in the next tournament,” she said.

Helena represents more than just another rising talent and embodies the qualities that have long defined the nation’s volleyball tradition, combining power, skill and the resilience to turn pressure into performance. With two bronze medals already in her collection, she has begun to carve out a path that could lead her to the very top of the sport.

2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s U21 World Championship: full schedule

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