In a significant move for her career, 21-year-old Alexandra Makeeva has signed a contract with Togliatti's handball club Lada, leaving behind her previous team, Rostov-Don-2, where she made a notable impact in the Major League. The talented right half-player scored 129 goals in 24 matches during her last season with Rostov, asserting herself as one of the leading figures of the league.
Makeeva, who began her handball journey at the age of six in her hometown, Protvino, has followed a path that many young athletes aspire to. After mastering her skills in the sport for eight years, she caught the attention of coaches at the national level, leading to an invitation to join the Rostov system when she was just 14 years old. This opportunity came after she starred at the Russian championship finals for girls under 16 in Rostov-on-Don, showcasing her potential on a larger stage.
Training at the Rostov Regional Olympic Reserve School has been a crucial step in Makeeva's development. Under the guidance of esteemed coaches Sergei Belitsky and Marina Kalyuzhina, she honed her skills and transitioned into professional sports. During her time with the Rostov-Don double, she became the top scorer for her team, netting 119 goals in 30 games—an impressive feat that demonstrated her natural talent and hard work.
Makeeva expressed her gratitude for her time in Rostov, stating, "The time spent in Rostov gave me invaluable experience, many different acquaintances, and loyal friends. I am very grateful for this to my coaches and the club's management!" This reflection highlights her appreciation for the network and support system that helped her develop as an athlete.
Reflecting on her move to Lada, Makeeva shared her excitement about new opportunities. "I was pleasantly surprised and gladly accepted, as I understood that this is a huge growth in my career," she explained. The young forward is eager to bring her energy and talent to Togliatti, where she will compete under the number 77.
Makeeva views Lada as a promising team, noting, "This is a good team, equipped with high-level players, but also many young athletes, which is important to me." Such a perspective indicates her readiness to contribute to the team's spirit while also reinforcing her own development as a player. She has already been monitoring the performances of Lada in the Super League and commented positively on their fighting spirit and game style.
Looking forward, Makeeva is dedicated to stepping up her game at Lada. She stated, "I will do everything possible to achieve the goals set for the club so that it shows the highest results!" Her ambition not only hides a personal drive but also outlines her commitment to contributing to Lada's successes in both domestic and international competitions.
As she prepares to transition to her new team in Togliatti, Makeeva carries with her dreams and aspirations that reach beyond her individual goals. Enthusiastically awaiting her debut in Lada's lineup, she remarked on the warmth of the community, reiterating her experiences from past tournaments in Togliatti, insisting, "I have no doubt that this city will embrace me warmly!"
With her mix of skill, youthful enthusiasm, and a wealth of experience from her time at Rostov, Makeeva is set to bring new energy to Lada's roster. As she embarks on this exciting new chapter, fans of handball across Russia will be watching closely to see how one of the sport's rising stars lights up the court in Togliatti.
