DURHAM, N.C. – When incoming freshman setter Cindy Marina steps on the court in Cameron Indoor Stadium this fall, she brings a wealth of international playing experience after competing with the Albanian National Team in two European League tournaments this past summer.
The Temecula, Calif., native joined the Albanian National Team June 3-5 in Twardogora, Poland and again June 17-19 for the 2016 CEV Volleyball European League in Durres, Albania. The second tournament marked an important event for Albania, which hosted a high-level international volleyball competition for the first time in five years.
Marina's parents – Ardian and Kristina – are both Albanian natives while her mother played volleyball professionally in both Albania and Italy. Their support, along with encouragement from her club coaches and friends, enabled Marina to seize upon the opportunity to play at the international level.
“Two coaches from the Albanian National Team, when they saw videos of me playing, they reached out and wanted me to come play,” Marina said. “In the beginning, I was opposed to the idea because I would miss my high school graduation and end of year senior activities. My parents encouraged me to go because they had an idea of the experience I would have there. My club coach – Dana Burkholder- was also very supportive. In the end, our good family friend – Donald Suxho – influenced my final decision. Donald played volleyball in Albania and in the Olympics with Team USA, so he knew how this experience could be a very big opportunity for me.”
A setter since age nine, Marina was at first nervous about taking the court with her Albanian teammates, but acclimated quickly with support from her teammates and dedicated Albanian fans.
“All the girls welcomed me and made me feel at home,” Marina said. “The girls are very intense there and they hold you extremely accountable, but I liked it because it made me grow as a player. Also, the crowds are a big factor internationally. They will blow horns from beginning to end and constantly cheer.”
With that support, Marina and her Albanian teammates picked up a key victory over powerhouse Poland in Albania, celebrated by all in attendance.
“My favorite memory by far was when we beat Poland in Albania,” Marina added. “They played an Albanian song and the fans came down and we all danced together to celebrate.”
Prior to her international experience, Marina helped Great Oak High School to its third straight CIF semifinals as a senior, earning Southwestern League MVP honors in the process. A Gatorade Player of the Year nominee, her club team – Forza1 – is ranked among the top in Southern California.
Now at Duke for Summer Session II, Marina is ready to bring her experience – both high school and international -- to Cameron.
“I was able to play at a very high level with the team and beat some of the top teams,” Marina said. “That will help me adapt to the collegiate level.”
Marina and the Blue Devils open the 2016 season Aug. 26 at home against UNCG.
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