The Polish Volleyball Federation has called up libero Klaudia Łyduch to join the women's national volleyball team squad at the European Championship in Turkey. The announcement was made on Thursday, one day ahead of Poland's fixture against Turkey for first place.
In the official tournament lineup, Justyna Łysiak will take the roster spot of team captain and libero Aleksandra Szczygłowska, who has been sidelined by health issues. Łyduch, who was previously named to the extended national roster for the season, will not be registered for tournament matches but will assist the team during training sessions.
Szczygłowska has already missed three consecutive matches for the national team during the tournament. The governing body had not previously released detailed information regarding the captain's health problems.
Captain's statement and medical status
Speaking through the federation's social media channels, Szczygłowska thanked supporters for the messages of encouragement she received in recent days. She stated that she is under constant observation by the medical staff and is doing everything possible to return to helping the team as quickly as possible.
The team captain also asked fans to direct their support to her teammates on the court, adding that she will speak more extensively about her condition once she reaches full fitness. The Polish Volleyball Federation confirmed that Szczygłowska will remain in Turkey with the squad under the care of the medical staff.
Role of the libero and tournament progress
In volleyball, the libero is a specialized defensive player who wears a contrasting jersey, restricted to the back row to handle receptions and digs without serving or attacking at the net. The Polish Volleyball Federation, known as the Polski Związek Piłki Siatkowej (PZPS), oversees national team selections for the European Championship.
Poland enters the upcoming match following a flawless run in the competition, having won all of their matches so far. The fixture against Turkey is scheduled to start on Friday, August 28, at 6:00 p.m. Polish time.
