Where are they now? Taylor Reineke
December 22, 2010 | Volleyball
Dec. 22, 2010
MADISON, Wis. – For former Badger Taylor Reineke, her desire to play volleyball and travel came back this past fall. The 6-3 middle blocker is currently playing on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus.
Reineke wrapped up her UW career in 2007 as a third-team All-American and three-time first-team All-Big Ten honoree. After graduation, she played in Switzerland during the 2008-09 season. Reineke played with NUC Volleyball in Neuchatel, aiding her team to a league championship in 2009.
Reineke talked to UWBadgers.com about her current team and what it’s like to play in the Mediterranean.
Where are you currently playing?
I am currently playing my second season of professional volleyball in the gorgeous country of Cyprus – an island in the eastern Mediterranean, just south of Turkey and west of Syria and Israel. Check out the map to the right. Find the red star...that's me!
Why did you decide you wanted to play again?
As many of you know, after finishing up my career at UW, I played a season in Switzerland. It was an amazing experience, but I came back pretty burnt out and wasn't sure volleyball was my passion anymore. I took some time off and played volleyball sporadically for leisure and was able to play in a few competitive tournaments. After a much needed volleyball sabbatical, the flame came back (along with my travel bug) and I was itching to play again!
How did you get on the team and/or why this team?
I play for AEK, based out of Larnaca, Cyprus. My fellow Badger, Jackie Simpson, played on AEK last year and set me up with the gig. I’m very thankful for all of her help! When the opportunity came up to play overseas again, especially in beautiful Cyprus, I couldn’t turn it down!
Who is on your team?
I play with Christie Landry, a former setter at Michigan State and former assistant coach at Northwestern. Christie actually coached at Northwestern while I played for the Badgers…so I saw her through the net twice a year. The rest of the players on the team are native Cypriots.
What are your living conditions?
I live in a two-bedroom flat/townhouse with Christie. Over the past two months I’ve lived here, it’s really become a home.
When does your season start? How long does it go and how often do you play? Who is your competition?
Our season started in mid-October and goes through the end of April. We play against all Cypriot teams, one game a week. Starting Dec. 21, we start playing Cup games as well, which is a different tournament altogether.
How are you adjusting to life in Cyprus? How does it compare where you’ve played overseas before?
I’m LOVING life here in Cyprus so far. I’ve been very blessed to have good company with me so the adjustment hasn’t been hard. English is commonly spoken here, which makes it much easier to get around than Switzerland. The pace of living is much slower and very relaxed, which I love! The people are friendly, the weather is warm, and the Greek food is fabulous. I’m in a very happy place.
Are there any language barriers?
Most of the players are fluent in English.
What is your typical day like?
My days are never the same because there is a lot of free time which I fill with different activities like reading, going to the beach, grabbing a bite to eat or a cup of coffee, catching up with friends and family, napping and exploring. The only staples in my day are strength and conditioning in the morning and practice at night.
Websites or other links to help people keep track of you?
Check me out on Facebook! You can also check our standings at www.volleyball.org.cy.
