Nicole Fawcett was instrumental in Praia Clube’s Superliga title run last season, the first of its history, and the first time in over a decade a team not named Rio de Janeiro or Osasco won the title. Now, after spending some time with her family in the US, she is back to training with the team and ready for another season. This time though, she won’t be the lone American in the team, as the club’s newest player, Carli Lloyd, is a old friend of Fawcett. Together, they participated in Team USA’s title run at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto.
Here is what Fawcett had to say of the season ahead and of having Lloyd as her newest sidekick (Globo.com):
“Our goal is to be champions again. We had a very good season last year. It will certainly be very difficult because teams have strengthened themselves with great players, so we have to be better every day. Some Brazilian NT players have reinforced some teams, it will be a very difficult league. Particularly, I need to improve on some points. In the semifinals last season, for example, I had ups and downs. I need to be consistent all the time.
One thing I’ve learned in professional volleyball is the need to make adjustments. I understand that trading a few pieces is part of the business and I think we brought some great players this season. I can not wait to get in with them. Carli is my friend, and every time we meet, we have a good time. I believe that this will be transferred to the court positively. She is a very competitive and and competent setter who works hard in the court. People like this encourage us to be better and improve the game. Carli will add a lot to the squad and make our team even better.”
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