From the European Under-22 Championship to the Senior National Team: Julio Velasco Opens the Door for Safa Allaoui

After winning a spectacular gold medal with the Under-22 national team at the European Championships in that age group, Safa Allaoui has taken another step forward in her development: the setter for ChorusLife Volley Bergamo has been called up to the senior national team training camp led by Julio Velasco, currently underway in Cavalese in preparation for the European Championships set to begin on August 21.

The Italian Volleyball Federation (Federvolley) confirmed the head coach’s decision in a statement released on Wednesday: “At the recommendation of head coach Julio Velasco, starting today, setter Safa Allaoui will take part in the Women’s National Team training camp currently underway in Cavalese, as part of the preparation for the 2026 European Championship.”

The call-up, which came in the midst of summer training, represents a significant recognition of the progress made by the player, born in 2006. Velasco, who for months has emphasized the need to expand the pool of top-level setters, has chosen to focus on her to assess her skills, potential, and ability to adapt to the senior level.

Her commitment to the national team will prevent Allaoui from participating in ChorusLife Volley Bergamo’s official training camp for the 2026–2027 season, scheduled for Wednesday, August 6. This justified absence is a source of pride for the Bergamo-based club, given the significant step one of their players has taken on the path to the elite of Italian volleyball.