She turned 19 only a few weeks ago, but ambition has long been part of Tea Radovic’s DNA. The Tchalou outside hitter was the player most frequently named “MVP” by opposing teams this season.

Last year, she was already “Rookie of the Year” at Darta Bevo Roeselare. Still, she chose to move to Tchalou to grow further and prepare for an international career. A choice that paid off: next season, she will join French top club Béziers.

“I’m really happy to be voted MVP of the season. I worked extremely hard for it. I also thought Noor Debouck could win it. And Nikita De Paepe being named ‘Player of the Year’ is completely deserved — she only got injured after the regular season ended,” says the daughter of former top player Dragan Radovic.

No regrets about choosing Tchalou so early?
Tea Radovic: “None at all. The goal was to become more independent, and that happened. I lived alone for the first time, had to do everything myself — cooking, washing, ironing, cleaning, getting to training on time… and I didn’t even have a driver’s licence yet. Now I have a provisional one, so that’s sorted.
I also had to learn to communicate in another language, which will definitely help me in France.”

You’re also studying, right?
“Yes. I’m doing distance learning at Vives, studying social work. I study on my own for now; internships come later and there aren’t many.”

In what areas have you improved the most?
“I knew Tchalou would be a stepping stone, but I’ve grown a lot physically and mentally. It’s a warm club with great supporters, a fun group and an excellent coach in Ugo Blairon. I’ll never forget this team.”

The goal was a top‑three finish, but that didn’t happen…
“We had terrible luck with injuries. At one point, both our setters were out, and then Justine D’Hondt got injured too. It was so bad that I even had to play libero briefly.
In the second half of the season, we slowly returned to our level, but it was too late. Against Asterix, we had no chance.”

What are your strengths and weaknesses as a player?
“I read the game better now, and my ball control in defence has improved. I’m stronger physically and mentally thanks to hard training. But I know I still need to improve in every area.”

You dreamed of playing abroad. Has that dream come true?
“Italy is my ultimate dream. Serbia is not on my list for now.
I’ve signed for one season with Béziers. We’ll see how things go. Maybe one day I’ll get a great offer from Italy or Poland.”

The Yellow Tigers are next on your schedule?
“Yes, I’m expected to join the full campaign. First the VNL, where we want to maintain or improve our world ranking.
I had a great feeling with the national team last year, and I think we can have an excellent summer.
I haven’t looked at the opponents yet, but I have one big dream: the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. It won’t be easy, but we need to put ourselves in the best possible position now.”

Text: MC
Image: Topvolley Belgium