It's Student Volunteering Week Make a difference 

During our This Girl Can week, we are talking to some of our TeamUCL Elite Athletes to find out more about their journey through sport.

Be inspired, and find out more about Carla's story below!

My name is Carla, and I moved to London last year, and I'm studying a Masters in Sustainable Resource: Economics, Policy and Transitions.

My sporting journey started out in gymnastics when I lived in Shanghai, and at a young age, enjoyed the feeling of getting better at something. When I moved to Luxembourg, my friends encouraged me to join the school sports teams and I picked up Track & Field, Basketball and Volleyball. Though I wasn’t very good at the beginning and didn’t make the selection, I really enjoyed the team component of these sports and eventually took on Volleyball more intensely.

Has there been any obstacles that have you faced as a women athlete, and how have you overcome them?

Unfortunately, I’ve witnessed a lack of recognition for accomplishments amongst women’s teams. The good thing about a team sport is that you have a group of people to stand up for and that stand up for you!

Are there any women athletes in which you looked up to? And how have they influenced you?

I’ve looked up to many of my direct teammates. Especially when I was new in a team and it can be scary and there’s a lot to learn, I was inspired not only by the way they performed but also by the way they engaged with others, always offering a helping hand and wanting you to succeed. I remember a lot of the little things that were said to me or gestures that made me feel good and helped me perform. Those girls have inspired me to be a supportive teammate as much as I can.

What does the “This Girl Can” campaign mean to you?

I think it’s so important that people feel that they have a sense of place. This campaign highlights that sports have a place for everyone, and everyone should be able to find their place in sport.

What advice would you give to women who are interested in starting or pursing sport?

I would give the advice to listen to your body and do what makes you feel good.

How have family, friends and communities supported you through your sports career?

My support systems have been vital in keeping me motivated and helping in all aspects of life. Balancing it all can be overwhelming and knowing you don’t have to carry the load all by yourself is so important. Friends and family showing up for me at competitions, and the feeling of home in the volleyball community are very heart warming and rewarding.   

How do you manage the demands of training, competitions, studies, and personal life? How do you stary motivated?

It’s important to set boundaries for yourself and communicate what you need. A lot of the time, there are resources to help you, and the most valuable one is the people around you who understand and are willing to help, as long as you are willing to ask for it.  

Have you encountered stereotypes in your sport? How do you address them?

I’ve heard people say that they think women’s sports can be less aggressive or entertaining, but I’ve also heard a lot of people say the opposite. All I can say is you’re missing out if you’re sleeping on women in sports!

What is the most memorable moment in your sporting career?

One of the most memorable moments was representing Luxembourg to win a bronze medal at the European games of the small states. Being able to support and be supported by a range of different athletes at that event was beautiful!

What are your goals in sport and beyond?

My goals in sport are to continue learning and keep that feeling of getting better, both individually and in the team context. Eventually, I want to give back to the sports community in Luxembourg that gave me so much, and support other young athletes in finding their place!

Inspired by Carla? Why not try a new sport today or attend one of our Project Active This Girl Can events!