Tainara Santos, the star opposite hitter for Sesc RJ Flamengo, recently appeared on the 68th episode of MengoCast, the Flamengo TV podcast. During her engaging conversation with host João Guilherme and commentator Raquel Drodowsky, Tainara reflected on significant moments in her volleyball career, shared behind-the-scenes stories, and expressed her immense pride in wearing the Flamengo jersey.
Joining Flamengo in 2025 marked a pivotal moment for Tainara. She spoke about the fulfillment of working alongside Bernardinho, a coach she had long admired, and recounted interesting anecdotes from her recruitment process. Her deep connection with the club was evident as she emphasized the dedication required to represent Flamengo: “Wearing the jersey is literally playing with passion and determination. I felt that from the very first moment,” she stated.
Throughout the interview, Tainara also discussed her daily interactions with Bernardinho, highlighting his genuine concern for the well-being of the athletes both on and off the court. The rigorous training regimen at Sesc RJ Flamengo has played a crucial role in her technical and mental development. She underscored the importance of maintaining focus during critical moments and managing the pressure that comes with high-level volleyball.
Reflecting on her growth, Tainara acknowledged the influence of José Roberto Guimarães, crediting him for her tactical development and progress in her position. Behind her success, Tainara emphasized the invaluable support from her family. She expressed gratitude towards her parents, Fábio and Maria Teresa, for their unwavering encouragement throughout her journey. Her father even adjusted his own schedule to attend her training sessions early in her career and now serves as her manager.
Tainara noted that she has always had the freedom to forge her own path without feeling pressured to pursue a professional career, which has made her journey more enjoyable and fulfilling. As she reminisced about memorable matches, including the Superliga semifinals, she conveyed the emotional intensity experienced on the court and the importance of understanding the challenges athletes face throughout the season.
The affection she has received from Flamengo fans has also been a significant source of motivation. Tainara expressed how welcomed she felt by the Nação Rubro-Negra since her arrival, reinforcing her sense of belonging and drive to continue representing the club.
Looking ahead, Tainara is focused on the upcoming challenges, with the Superliga being a primary goal for Sesc RJ Flamengo. She also mentioned her ongoing commitment to the Brazilian National Team and her aspirations to achieve new milestones in her career, including additional Olympic medals. With daily dedication and a commitment to continuous improvement, the number 10 jersey holder remains determined to help Flamengo reach its goals this season.
