Eyeing the podium: Samantha Rezende
By Mariana Sá and Helena Petry - inSamantha Rezende's beginnings in water polo were unusual. An artistic swimmer, she listened to a Flamengo lifeguard's advice and decided to try something different. Despite her initial apprehension, she decided to try something more challenging, but discovered it was her true passion. At 21, the Flamengo athlete is dedicated to the sport and is focused on the Pan American Games in Lima, which would be her third in her career.
Passionate about Flamengo and a soccer fanatic, Samantha stands out for scoring goals in the pool. Outside of the pool, she receives support from her family and enjoys special moments in her career. A fan of Illana Pinheiro, a former Flamengo player and current assistant coach for the men's polo team, she wants to achieve even more by defending the colors she has always loved.
In the series "Eye on the Podium," Flamengo's official website tells the stories of some of the club's and Brazil's top athletes, covering their personal lives, careers, and, of course, their favorite. Learn more about those who make Flamengo and Brazil's Olympic sports stronger.
Beginning of water polo
I started polo on the recommendation of a Flamengo lifeguard. I used to do artistic swimming, but I'm a bit rough and not at all delicate. He talked about the sport with my mother, who took me to training every day. Then she met Antônio Canetti (the women's coach), and they talked. So I had the honor of jumping in the water to train that same day. Before that, I said I'd never do water polo because it was too rough and I was afraid of getting hurt. Once I started, I never wanted to stop.
Arrival at Flamengo
I got here through my brother, who played basketball at the club. My mother and I came with him every day. I arrived when I was 5 years old.
Most memorable moment
My most memorable moment with the Manto Sagrado was my first championship. I've had several that are part of my career, but this one was special. I arrived very nervous, thinking it wouldn't work out, but I played very well, was the top scorer and the best player of the tournament.
Daily routine
Currently, I dedicate myself exclusively to water polo. I run in the morning, come home, rest, and go to the gym to work out. Then I have daily training. In addition, I also have physical therapy, a psychologist, massage therapy, and other activities.
Biggest challenges of being a high-performance athlete
The biggest challenge is that we often have to give up our social life to train. We have to be away from home for a long time, traveling to other cities. We don't have vacations; I trade free days to train and improve.
Main competitions and preparation
I'm currently in São Paulo training for the Pan American Games. This is one of the most important championships for me, along with the National League playoffs, where I'll play with Flamengo at the end of the year. We're well prepared, heading into our fourth week of training. We're doing two sessions a day, creating greater awareness of our training. My expectations are high, as we have a chance of qualifying for the Olympic Games through the Pan American Games, and we're focused on that. I don't see it as pressure, but rather as a goal. It won't be easy, but we'll do everything we can to arrive with a high level of competitiveness.
Family
I have a very good family structure. I live with my parents and always see my brothers and my niece. They've always supported me in everything.
Idols in sports
My idol in sports is Illana Pinheiro. For me, she's a unique player because she's incredibly talented and has an incredible understanding of the game. I've never seen a left-hander play as well as she does. I really admire her, and my dream is to play like her. I'm incredibly lucky that we've shared the pool and won several titles.
Hobbies and free time
I love going to the beach to play altinha (a Brazilian soccer ball) and partying with friends. On my days off, I enjoy spending time with my family, seeing my niece, and taking her for walks. I also love going to Maracanã to cheer on Mengão.
Passion for football
I'm passionate about soccer; I've always enjoyed going to games. I have an obsessive love for Flamengo; it's my greatest passion.
Technical sheet
Name: Samantha Rezende Ferreira
Age: 21 years
Height: 1,69 cm
Place of Birth: Rio de Janeiro (RJ)
Main achievements: First place in the South American Championship in Argentina, winning the top scorer position; second place in the Pan American Championship in California, third place in the Pan American Championship in Canada and third place in the UANA Cup