Brezilyan Olympic volleyball champion Walewska Oliveira died on Friday at the age of 44. The cause of death has not yet been released, but it is believed to be due to health problems such as a heart attack or stroke.
Oliveira, who was born in Minas Gerais, Brazil, on October 10, 1978, began playing volleyball at a young age. She quickly rose through the ranks of the Brazilian national team, making her debut in 1998. She was a key member of the team that won gold medals at the 2004, 2006, and 2008 World Grand Prix, and she was named the best blocker at the 2008 World Grand Prix.
Oliveira also had a successful club career, playing for teams in Italy, Spain, and Russia. She was a two-time Italian league champion with Despar Perugia and a Spanish league champion with CAV Murcia.
Oliveira's death was a shock to the volleyball world. She was a beloved figure in Brazil and around the world, and her legacy will be remembered for years to come.
Here are some additional details about Oliveira's life and career:
The Brazilian Volleyball Confederation (CBV) issued a statement expressing its condolences to Oliveira's family and friends. The CBV also said that Oliveira would be remembered as an "unforgettable athlete" who "made a significant contribution to the sport of volleyball."
Oliveira's death is a major loss for the volleyball world. She was a talented player who achieved great success at the international level. She will be remembered as one of the greatest volleyball players of all time.