Papafotiou: “The best, the most unpredictable, the most exciting league by far”

The title of most valuable player in this year’s Women’s Volleyball League was won by Athina Papafotiou.

The Panathinaikos passer was awarded after the last final with Olympiakos and talked about everything that happened this season, from the beginning to winning the title, but her personal success.

In detail, what he said on the official website of EOPE (volleyball.gr):

Athena, for the first time as captain, you lifted the champion’s cup and were named MVP…

“It is, indeed, the first time that I win a championship as a team captain and I am especially happy that it is Panathinaikos and in my country”

What was the most difficult moment during this season, which many moments resembled a roller coaster of horror?

“Our characteristic as a team throughout the year was probably instability, but we managed at the most critical point to be consistent and composed. And that was the hardest thing, especially mentally, and that’s why we’re so proud of this championship.

All of us, the players, the coaches and the staff as well as the administration, managed to rise up at the right moment and claim every step of our way to get here today. It was the personal belief and actions of each of us that created the team result and that is the beauty of team sports.”

Despite the 3-0 wins, the truth is that in all three matches there was a very big match against Olympiacos and like the semi-finals, the finals were decided in the details. Was this year really the best league in recent years?

“It was a championship that Olympiacos could have won as well, because we all saw how every game was decided on a point. It could have been won by PAOK who finished first in the regular season, but also by AEK who won the cup. But we are at the top and it is precisely this competition that gives the greatest value to what we have achieved this year. It was the best, most unpredictable and most exciting championship in recent years by far!”

The third final was also the first match in the history of women’s volleyball at the OAKA indoor venue. Was it really a different feeling and would you like to see more?

“I’m glad that we all made history together, playing for the first time in front of so many people at OAKA. It was unique! Athletes, teams and fans, we highlighted the dynamics that women’s volleyball has today in Greece. I hope that more and more matches will be held like this, and that it will be properly utilized in order to raise the level even more in Greece.”

Where do you dedicate this personal distinction?

“I dedicate my personal distinction to my fellow athletes, who did not give up for a moment, even when things looked ominous, and to my family who were, are and will always be my point of reference.”