WERQ it girl!
Meet Tiffany Abreu, a 29 year old Brazilian player, who is spreading her FIERCE volleyball wings in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. What makes Tiffany’s story very interesting is that she used to be a “male” player who has played top level volleyball in some parts of the globe like Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Indonesia and Belgium.
The Tiffany now used to be Rodrigo.
Moving To Amsterdam…
Her days as “Rodrigo” was somewhat a lonely chapter in her life. She played on a men’s team and never really felt comfortable opening up about her sexuality to her teammates. There were times she felt alone and needed a place where she would feel more welcome.
She then called a friend and that conversation led her to move to Amsterdam. “Rodrigo” fell in love with the city and decided to stay.
This is where the transformation is taking place.
Fast Forward To Today…
Tiffany has been informed by the Dutch Volleyball Organization (NEVOBO) that the only way for her to play on a women’s team is that she must undergo a sex change (SRS: Sex Reassignment Surgery). The club where she currently plays speaks highly of her. Coach George says that he doesn’t care about who or what his players are. What he values the most is the dedication and the commitment his players have to help the team succeed. Tiffany possesses these traits and her teammates deeply appreciate the love she has for the sport.
Warning…
Tiffany is completely aware that she might play against or be in an environment that may not welcome or against the person she has become. Her teammates have warned her of this possible scenario and she is ready to face any hate or adversity coming her way.
The negative reactions will always be part of her journey but she has no time to dwell in such bubble. She is committed to play her best no matter what.
Tiffany’s story has been featured by Dutch newspaper Het Parool and by volleybalkrant.nl.
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