Debut of Kiara Lazo in Peruvian Volleyball League
Saturday, January 10, will be a date impossible to forget for Kiara Lazo. The 15-year-old teenager made her debut under the guidance of celebrated coach Natalia Malaga during the match between Deportivo Géminis and Atlético Atenea, marking the start of the second phase of the Peruvian Volleyball League 2025/2026.
A Memorable Moment for a Young Athlete
In a challenging context following a loss at the Lucha Fuentes Sports Center in Villa El Salvador, the former coach of the Peruvian national team recognized Lazo’s potential. She swiftly entered the field to replace central defender Angela Barboza. The applause from her teammates helped soothe her nerves, allowing the young player to focus.
First Points and Team Spirit
Lazo, who stands at 1.77 meters tall, showcased her skills alongside seasoned player Vielka Peralta. She made an impressive entry by scoring her first point in the highest tier of national volleyball. The moment was electrifying, as the ball from an opposing attack hit her hands before landing on the floor, igniting jubilation among fans and teammates alike.
The crowd roared in celebration, and her teammates, including Peralta and Katielle Alonzo, celebrated her triumph enthusiastically. Coach Natalia Malaga was quick to applaud her promotee’s achievement.
Challenges Ahead for Deportivo Géminis
Despite Lazo’s remarkable debut, the circumstances were less than favorable for Géminis Sports. They faced a disappointing second consecutive defeat in the league, having previously lost 3-1 to Circolo Sportivo Italiano. The match’s set scores reflect their struggles: 25-11, 18-25, 25-17, and 25-16.
In their latest encounter against Atlético Atenea, the team faltered spectacularly, losing 3-0 with set scores of 25-22, 25-21, and 25-20. As a result, Géminis dropped one position in the standings, currently sitting in sixth place with 17 points, trailing behind teams like Circolo, Athena, Lima Alliance, University, and San Martin University.
Looking Forward: The Road Ahead for Natalia Malaga’s Team
Coach Natalia Malaga will need to strategize swiftly to enhance team performance in the lead-up to their next game. The current standings will dictate their competitive landscape moving forward, as securing a place among the top eight is crucial for advancing in the tournament.
Coach Malaga’s Vision
Staying true to her coaching style, Malaga candidly expressed her frustrations with the players during matchday 10 of the league’s first phase. Following a win against Rebaza Acosta, she pointed out the team’s deficiencies, including attitude and resilience under pressure.
“I like it more and more, but I’m getting them to do it little by little. I can’t make a radical change because they are players who may not be used to the demands,” she stated during an interview with Sports Chair. Her comments suggest her commitment to fostering growth and awareness among her athletes.