December 10th, 2012

It’s never easy to say goodbye…

Last Sunday, Juliana and Larissa played their final match together on a happy note. They won the bronze medal at the Brazilian tour stop in Rio de Janeiro versus Karin Rodrigues and Shaylyn Bede (21-15, 16-21, 15-12).

The 2012 bronze medalists couldn’t hold back their emotions after the match.

“I’m feeling a combination of emotions. It’s sad to end this partnership which has achieved so much. But I’m also happy to have made a decision that I am certain is right. It won’t change anything about our place in history.” according to Larissa.

“It has been a great period. We suffered together, grew together and overcame all of our difficulties. We had a lot of wonderful moments and unforgettable victories. I learned a lot with Larissa and I’m going to take that knowledge with me in both my career and personal life. Now I want to make the most of the end of the season by resting and recharging my batteries to start a new chapter.” says Juliana.

Larissa says thank you…

Side Dish: Juliana will partner with Maria Elisa Antonelli next season.

December 6th, 2012

Sad face.

After 9 successful years, Larissa and Juliana have decided to part ways after a tournament this weekend in Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. Their last tourney together will be at the 2012 Brazilian Banco do Brasil Tour.

Within nine years, Brazil’s mighty beach duo won the FIVB World Tour seven times, the Brazilian Tour five times, the Pan-American Games twice, the 2011 World Championship and the Olympic bronze medal this year in London to go with more than 1000 victories and 100 titles under their belts.

The Reason: At 30, Larissa plans to start a family.

“I am a little anxious. I knew this moment would come and it will be tough to go through it. I will cry, but my tears will be of happiness and gratitude for everything beach volleyball has given me. I am sure and happy about my decision and I know my family will help me to be strong.” says Larissa.

Awwwww family comes first indeed!

We wish both players the best as they plan and prepare for their new adventures!

As of December 2012, Larissa has collected $1,357,235 while Juliana won $1,345,225 throughout their respective beach careers. That’s a lot of dinheiro!

Side Dish:Brazil’s Talita & Antonelli have also announced that they will not play together anymore after the tourney in Rio this weekend. “We had four years of success. We had more pleasure than sadness, but this cycle is coming to its end and we want to finish it in a very good way.” said Talita.

There’s going to some major major team changes starting next year!

Can’t Wait!