Greek talent Tsakalou shining in Slovenia

24-year old Lamprini Tsakalou is one of the big talents to come out of Greece in recent years and since August has become an integral part of Slovenian side RK Krim Mercator.

Lamprini has dealt well with the level of the Women’s EHF Champions League in her debut season as Krim battle to reach the quarter-finals.

”I believe we showed better performances in the group matches. Our biggest step back was the defeat against Nykobing, which also saw us lose our head-to-head advantage against them, but if we manage to up our game a bit and fix some details in the games to come, we can still reach the quarter-finals,” said Lamprini.

Her positive state of mind is also very welcomed amongst her teammates, who only have positive things to say about her. 

“She is a very smart player and we can talk about everything. She adapted to the team very quickly and we immediately welcomed her as our sister,” said Elizabeth Omoregie.

“We can always count on Lamprini, she’s always there to help. With her, every day is a good day, she is a ray of sunshine,” added Olga Perederiy.

Even though she managed to build a great bond with her teammates, she also admits to being homesick once in a while.

”I have a big family, three brothers, and we are all very close. I really wish I could see them and my parents more often. That is the only thought which can bring me down. That we are growing up apart.”

Nevertheless, her family and many other handball fans from Greece are following her performance on a daily basis and do their best to keep her positive while being so far from home.

“There are a lot of people from Greece watching the  Champions League games, they write articles on RK Krim Mercator’s performance after every game and they send me a lot of messages on Instagram and Facebook.

“Unfortunately, we do not have any other Greek players to compete at this level yet so everybody is really supportive and kind to me. I am very flattered and appreciate their love and support very much.

“I would like to say a huge "thank you" to all of those who believe in me. I hope to make them proud and be the best representative I can be of our country.”

Lamprini’s determination to succeed is clear to see every time she steps onto court. Her solid performances so far have proved she belongs at this level.

She is certain to relish the three-way battle for fourth place in Group 1, which comes to a head on Sunday 25 February as Lamprini and her teammates travel to Midtjylland.