At just 17 years old, Mikaela Hestmann Tierno is not merely participating in the FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship; she is embodying the fierce dedication required to climb the ranks in Brazilian volleyball. Currently showcasing her talents in Serbia and Croatia, Mikaela represents the next generation of athletes willing to make profound choices for their sport. Her story isn`t just about hitting a ball over a net; it`s about a life path fundamentally shaped by a love for volleyball, even when it meant diverging from family.
Born in Norway in 2007 to a Norwegian mother and a Brazilian father, Mikaela`s connection to Brazil began early, moving to Rio de Janeiro when she was only two months old. Growing up in Rio, it seems almost inevitable that volleyball would find her. Surrounded by the city`s vibrant sports culture and vast beaches, she initially followed her older brothers into the world of beach volleyball around the age of 10. The sand was the first arena, but the structured environment of indoor club volleyball soon captured her focus, a transition made in 2017 that solidified her passion.
A pivotal moment arrived four years ago when her mother and brothers decided to relocate back to Norway. For Mikaela, the decision was stark and clear: stay in Brazil and pursue her burgeoning volleyball career, or return with her family. She chose volleyball, remaining in Rio with her father to continue her development. This choice underscores the depth of her commitment – a level of sacrifice that highlights the single-minded pursuit often necessary for elite athleticism.
Her dedication bore fruit quickly. Mikaela`s talent was recognized early, leading to her debut on the international stage for Brazil`s U19 team at the age of 14. Early successes included two continental silver medals in 2022. By the 2023 U19 South American Championship, she had evolved into a leader, guiding Brazil to the title while earning personal accolades as the Most Valuable Player, securing a spot on the Dream Team, and proving her mettle as the tournament`s best server. Her serve remains a potent weapon, as evidenced by her performance in the current U19 World Championship pool stage, including a remarkable six aces against host Serbia.
This impressive trajectory did not go unnoticed by the highest echelons of Brazilian volleyball. For the 2024-2025 season, Mikaela earned a spot in the prestigious Brazilian Superliga, joining Sesc RJ Flamengo under the tutelage of legendary coach Bernardo Rezende. Stepping onto a professional court alongside seasoned players and guided by one of the sport`s most revered minds is a significant leap. She describes the experience as “amazing,” crediting Bernardo with reinforcing the crucial lessons of team spirit and, perhaps less surprisingly given his reputation, the absolute necessity of “really, really hard work.” As she puts it, hard work isn`t just training; it`s the foundation of confidence.
With a professional season under her belt and significant international youth experience, Mikaela`s ambitions are clear and lofty. The ultimate goal, shared by countless athletes globally, is to become an Olympic champion. Yet, her focus remains grounded in the present and near future as well, specifically aiming to conquer the Superliga title with her Sesc RJ Flamengo team. These intertwined goals paint a picture of an athlete dedicated to both national glory and professional success.
Brazil`s flawless start at the current U19 World Championship, winning their first six matches to advance to the final stages in Croatia, provides a fitting backdrop to Mikaela`s journey. The team exudes confidence, a reflection of their hard work and talent, while remaining keenly aware of the strength of their opponents. For Mikaela herself, despite the accolades and team success, the focus is on continued improvement. She acknowledges the desire to perform even better, balancing self-assessment with a healthy perspective, a sign of a mature athlete wise beyond her years.
Mikaela Hestmann Tierno`s path in volleyball is a compelling narrative of talent meeting relentless dedication. From the beaches of Rio to the international U19 stage and now the demanding environment of the Brazilian Superliga, her career is on a clear upward trajectory. Her story serves as an inspiring example of pursuing a passion with conviction, highlighting the sacrifices made and the dreams fiercely chased on the hardwood.
Marcus Blakely 
Wesley Dunham