Györ, Hungary, August 30, 2016. If you were to watch Hungarian middle blocker Reka Szedmák play for the first time, you would think she had an imposing stature combined with impressive Volleyball skills. Even a look at the statistics, where she is ranked on the 11th place with nine killing blocks after three match days, does not reveal anything about her biggest secret.

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Szedmák is the best middle blocker for her team so far, but is also the tournament's youngest participant at the tender age of 14. Born in September 2001, her height of 186cm puts her in the position to be one of the most impressive players to leave their mark as a player on this competition, having reached the first rest day.

“I didn’t know that I am the youngest player here and just saw it in the official programme,” said a surprised Szedmák. “Of course I am a little bit proud but I would not be here without my coach who has made the selection and gave me this great opportunity.”

Her coach András Horváth gave her the chance due to the skills she possesses coupled with the motivation to be one of his best players: “I could see it in the first training that Reka had all physical abilities for being a volleyballer and a good feeling for the ball as well. I think if she continues to work with the same passion she has shown so far, she can reach the highest level in Volleyball”, reported Horváth

Being a volleyballer was not her main goal. The Hungarian tried lots of sports until her sports teacher discovered her Volleyball talent four years ago.

She continued: “I went to a training of my hometown club Vasas-Óbuda SC in February. My sports teacher told me that I have the perfect conditions to play Volleyball. I guess it was a good idea. I have tried a lot of other sports and tried to play water polo, basketball, fencing, swimming and ballet as well.”

“I just love this sport because of the athleticism and fair play involved,” she added. “It is great that I have the chance to focus just on what me and my team are doing. This was one of the key points.”

“Of course, it is my goal to be a member of the senior national team in the future. To participate in the Olympics is an unbelievable dream and I will give everything to achieve it.”

Time will tell if she does go on to reach those objectives, but she has started well by competing in a tournament for girls a maximum of four years her senior.