The University at Albany Great Danes volleyball program has added two mid-year additions to its roster, bolstering their ranks as they prepare for future competition. One of those additions is Pinar Erol, an outside hitter hailing from Istanbul, Turkey.
Erol arrives at UAlbany after two seasons with Hofstra University, where she was a contributing member of a team that secured a Coastal Athletic Association regular-season championship. Her experience extends beyond the collegiate level, having captained her high school squad, Atacan Schools, to both Istanbul and Turkey Championships. She also competed in Turkey’s Women’s 1st and 2nd Leagues, earning Player of the Week honors in 2022, demonstrating a consistent level of performance.
The addition of Erol provides the Great Danes with a versatile player capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game. UAlbany Head Coach Josh Pickard emphasized Erol’s ability to play all six rotations, a valuable asset for any volleyball team. “Pinar is a great addition to our squad,” Pickard stated. “She adds experience and the ability to play all six rotations. We were excited to have her join us, and she has already shown how valuable she is in the limited time she has been here.”
Erol’s background showcases a dedication to the sport cultivated over years of competitive play. Her leadership role at Atacan Schools suggests a maturity and ability to influence the game beyond her individual skills. The experience gained in Turkey’s professional leagues, even at the 1st and 2nd League levels, provides a different competitive landscape than collegiate volleyball in the United States, potentially offering a unique perspective and skillset to the Great Danes.
The timing of Erol’s arrival is significant. Mid-year additions are often crucial for teams looking to address specific needs or add depth to their rosters before the start of a new season or conference play. Her immediate impact, as noted by Coach Pickard, suggests a quick adaptation to the UAlbany program and a seamless integration with her new teammates.
Beyond her athletic abilities, Erol intends to major in Psychology at UAlbany, indicating a commitment to her academic pursuits alongside her volleyball career. Balancing the demands of a Division I athletic program with rigorous academic coursework requires discipline and time management skills, qualities that likely contribute to her success on the court.
The University at Albany Great Danes compete in the America East Conference. While specific details regarding the conference standings and upcoming schedule weren’t provided, the addition of a player with Erol’s experience will undoubtedly be a factor as the team navigates the challenges of conference play. The America East Conference has seen increased competition in recent years, making each roster addition even more critical.
The Great Danes encourage fans to stay connected with the team through their social media channels – X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook – for the latest news, highlights, and insights. This accessibility allows fans to follow the team’s progress and engage with the program directly.
Meliha Diken, another Turkish women’s volleyball player, is noted as an exceptional outside hitter, excelling in both defense and offense. While not directly related to the UAlbany program, Diken’s success highlights the growing talent pool emerging from Turkey’s volleyball system, potentially influencing the development of players like Erol.
The addition of Pinar Erol represents a strategic move by the University at Albany Great Danes volleyball program, adding a seasoned player with a proven track record to their roster. Her experience, versatility, and academic commitment position her as a valuable asset both on and off the court. As the team prepares for future challenges, Erol’s contributions will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
