Galilea Fuentes: the young promise of Peruvian volleyball who inspires new generations.

Galilea Fuentes, the young promise of Peruvian volleyball, continues to make her mark in the world of sports. At just 14 years old, her journey is an example of perseverance and dedication, qualities that have led her to be considered a role model for many girls in her hometown of Cusco. In a recent interview, Galilea shared her experiences and reflections on her career, her dreams, and the pressure she feels as a public figure in the realm of volleyball. Last year, during the South American U16 Championship, Galilea was one of the standout players on the Peruvian team, significantly contributing to their qualification for the World Championship held in Lima. Despite her youth, the athlete feels comfortable in her role and does not let the expectations overwhelm her. “I don’t pressure myself because I’m the youngest in the group. Everything that happens helps me keep learning,” she stated, showing surprising maturity for her age. Her path to volleyball began unexpectedly. With a background in swimming, Galilea turned to volleyball thanks to a teacher who saw great potential in her. Since then, her life took a radical turn, leading her to leave her home in Cusco to move to Lima with the goal of pursuing her sports dreams. “It was all a sacrifice, but my parents supported me a lot. Without them, I wouldn’t have made it this far,” the young athlete commented gratefully. The decision to move to the capital was not easy. Galilea had to leave behind her family life and friends in Cusco, a place she describes as peaceful and familiar. However, arriving in Lima also meant a new opportunity in her career. “At first, it was difficult to adapt, but now I feel at home. My teammates welcomed me with open arms, and I feel like we are a family,” she expressed. In addition to her sports dreams, Galilea also has academic aspirations. Despite her dedication to volleyball, she dreams of becoming a doctor and working abroad. “I know that sports can open many doors for me, but I want to maintain a balance between both passions,” she reflected. This clear vision of her future is a testament to her maturity and focus. The competitiveness in youth volleyball can be fierce, and Galilea is aware of this. “There is always pressure to win, but my parents remind me that the most important thing is to learn and grow. We have psychologists on the team who help us manage the pressure and prepare for any outcome,” she commented. This positive approach is key to her personal and athletic development. Galilea holds a special affection for her life in Cusco. “The Municipality and the Wánchaq League supported me a lot. That motivates me to keep going because I know I represent all the girls who dream of being in my place,” she affirmed, highlighting her role as an ambassador for volleyball in her community. This connection to her roots is a driving force that pushes her to give her best in every match. Her relationship with her teammates has also evolved significantly. Although they didn’t know each other well at first, Galilea now feels like an integral part of the group. “We look out for each other, especially when I’ve been on the bench. My teammates help me see the plays and give me confidence,” she noted, emphasizing the sense of camaraderie that has developed within the team. With an eye on the future, Galilea hopes to continue achieving success in her sports career. Regarding the support from Peruvian fans, she expressed her desire for people to stand by them in good times and bad. “It’s nice to feel the support of the people, but it’s also important that they understand we are young and that we are always learning,” she concluded with a smile. In a world where the capabilities of young people are often questioned, Galilea Fuentes stands as an example of dedication and effort, not only in volleyball but in life. Her story is a reminder that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.