Born: 1977 (Yaguajay, Cuba)
Biography:
Taismary Agüero Leiva, the accomplished Cuban-born Italian volleyball player, is known for being the only athlete to represent two women’s volleyball national teams to win major titles. Agüero was born on March 5, 1977, in Yaguajay, a town located in the province of Sancti Spiritus, Cuba. From a young age, she showed immense talent and passion for volleyball, starting her journey in the sport at the tender age of eight.
Agüero’s talent did not go unnoticed, and at the age of ten, she joined the Cerro Pelado Training Center in Havana, where she honed her skills and developed into a formidable player. In 1993, she made her mark on the international stage by winning the junior women’s volleyball world championship. This achievement paved the way for her inclusion in the senior national team, where she showcased her abilities in the years to come.
In 1996, Agüero represented Cuba in the Summer Olympics held in Atlanta, where she played a vital role in leading her team to victory and securing the gold medal. Two years later, in 1998, she was instrumental in winning the FIVB Women’s World Championship in Japan alongside teammates Mireya Luis, Regla Bell, Ana Ibis Fernandez, and Mirka Francia.
Agüero’s success continued to flourish as she played a pivotal role in the Cuban Woman volleyball national team that brought home the gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. However, it was during the summer of 2001 that her journey took an unexpected turn. While participating in a tournament in Switzerland, she made the monumental decision to leave the Cuban National Team and seek political asylum in Italy.
Despite opposition from the Cuban volleyball federation, Agüero was granted permission by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) to play in Italy. She joined Pallavolo Sirio Perugia, an Italian volleyball club where she had previously played during the 1998-1999 and 1999-2000 seasons. Her time in Italy was not only marked by her outstanding performances on the court but also by a significant personal milestone. At the end of 2006, Agüero became an Italian citizen after marrying Alessio Botteghi, an Italian physiotherapist.
In the summer of 2007, Agüero’s talent and dedication to the sport led to her inclusion in the Italian national team, further solidifying her status as an accomplished athlete. She continued to grace the volleyball court with her remarkable prowess, playing for various clubs in Turkey and Italy, including Sirio Perugia, Asystel Novara, Türk Telekom Ankara, and Carnaghi Villa Cortese.
Throughout her career, Agüero has earned numerous accolades and titles. In the 1993 junior championship, she was named MVP, Best Setter, and Best Server. She went on to win the Panamerican Games with Cuba in 1995 and 1997. Additionally, Agüero triumphed in the Summer Olympic Games in 1996 and 2000, representing Cuba.
After becoming an Italian citizen, Agüero’s success transitioned to the Italian national team. In 2007, she led Italy to victory in the European Championship, and her outstanding performance earned her the title of Most Valuable Player. Agüero also had success at the club level, winning the Italian national championship in 2002/2003 and 2004/2005.
Taismary Agüero’s indomitable spirit, exceptional talent, and unwavering determination have left an indelible mark on the world of women’s volleyball. Her ability to switch national teams and continue to excel in the sport is a testament to her immense skill and passion for the game.
Awards:
– Gold Medalist, 1996 Summer Olympics (Atlanta)
– Gold Medalist, 1998 FIVB Women’s World Championship
– Gold Medalist, 2000 Summer Olympics (Sydney)
– Most Valuable Player, 2007 European Championship