The duo, formed by athletes from the Viva o Esporte project in Betim, were the only Brazilians in the women’s category

Brazilian athletes Emanuelly Pereira (Manu) and Quemile Souza, members of the Viva o Esporte project run by the Ramacrisna Institute in partnership with the Betim City Council, took to the podium on Sunday (22) after winning the bronze medal in the Qidong stage of the Beach Pro Tour – Futures stage in China, which is part of the World Beach Volleyball Tour. The duo defeated Australians Bettenay and Dodd 2 sets to 1, with scores of 21/16, 17/21, and 16/14, in a fierce battle for third place.

The path to the podium was marked by challenges. In their debut, Manu and Quemile were defeated by the Australians, 2 sets to 1. However, they turned things around and showed improvement in the second match, defeating Japan’s Sanada and Shigechika 2 sets to 0 (21/19 and 21/14). In the quarterfinals, they shone again by eliminating Japan’s Shirahata and Fukuda in a thrilling match, with scores of 21/19 and 29/27.

In the semifinals, the Brazilian duo faced Ren and Non of Japan, but were defeated 2 sets to 0 (19/21 and 16/21). Despite the setback, Manu and Quemile showed resilience and, in the bronze medal match, redeemed themselves against the Australians, securing their second international medal of the season (the first was also bronze, at the Future in Maricá (RJ), in 2024).

“This medal represents more than a sporting achievement. It is living proof that social projects transform realities. Manu and Quemile are a reflection of the work we do every day at the Ramacrisna Institute. With dedication, support, and opportunities, they reached the international stage, raising the name of Betim and showing the power of inclusion through sport,” said Solange Bottaro, vice president of the Ramacrisna Institute.

Excited after their victory, the athletes celebrated the result and highlighted their sense of achievement. “It was a very challenging tournament, with strong opponents. In addition, the cultural differences and intense time zone made everything more difficult, but we overcame the adversities with each other’s support. We entered the court with determination and enthusiasm. We are happy and our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for bringing this medal to our city and our Brazil. This shows that we are on the right track and that we can dream even bigger,“ said Manu. ”As a professional athlete, I have a goal: to reach the next Olympics. I dream of being an Olympic medalist and I am working to achieve this goal,” added the athlete.

With this achievement, the duo reinforces the leading role of women in beach volleyball and the positive impact of projects such as Viva o Esporte, which offers training, structure, and encouragement for young talents to achieve their dreams, both on and off the court.

About the championship

The Beach Pro Tour – Futures stage is one of the divisions of the World Beach Volleyball Tour, organized by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB). The Qidong stage in China brings together athletes from different countries and serves as an important showcase for young talents in the sport who are seeking a place on the international scene.

The Futures stages play a fundamental role in the development of pairs aiming to reach the Elite and Challenge levels of the circuit, offering world ranking points and high-level technical experiences. The competition is played in a knockout system, with direct confrontations in best-of-three sets.

About Viva o Esporte

The Viva o Esporte Project, carried out by the Ramacrisna Institute in partnership with the Betim City Hall, promotes free access to physical, sports, recreational, and leisure activities for various communities in the city. The initiative serves children from 4 years old, adolescents, young people, adults, and the elderly, including people with and without disabilities, reinforcing its commitment to inclusion and quality of life.

In 2024, the project reached 5,866 participants, totaling 70,991 visits to sports activities—an 8% increase over the previous year. With this expansion, Viva o Esporte reaffirms its essential role in promoting health, well-being, and citizenship for the population of Betim.