German Hockey Star Selin Oruz Balances Olympic Dream and Medical Aspirations

As she takes the field for the German women’s hockey team at the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers in Ranchi, Selin Oruz nurtures a dual dream – winning an Olympic medal while pursuing a career as a doctor. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Ric Charlesworth, she envisions herself with an Olympic medal around her neck alongside a stethoscope in the future.

Currently working in the ENT department of a practice in Krefeld, Germany, Selin is balancing her roles as a medical professional and a hockey player. She scored the opening goal for Germany in the Women’s FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers, contributing to their 3-0 victory over Chile.

Selin, who comes from a family of doctors, sees parallels between medicine and hockey. While following in the footsteps of her parents in the medical field, she aspires to emulate her brother, Timur Oruz, who won bronze at the 2016 Olympics and the 2023 World Cup.

Acknowledging the challenges of balancing medicine and hockey, Selin finds joy in both pursuits. She plans to give herself until the end of the year to chase her Olympic dream before transitioning into a full-time doctor.

In terms of balancing the two fields, Selin emphasizes discipline and sees similarities in the commitment required for both medicine and hockey. Despite the demanding schedule, she is committed to both endeavors and hopes to specialize in pediatrics.

Selin’s unique journey involves completing seven years of medical studies, working for a year in a hospital, and now aiming to balance her Olympic aspirations with her medical career. She envisions becoming a pediatrician, inspired by her mother, who is her idol.

The affable 20-year-old defender believes that being a sportsperson aids her interactions with child patients. Her background in sports creates an affinity with young patients, fostering a positive connection.

Selin expresses gratitude for her parents, who encouraged her to explore multiple interests and develop into a well-rounded individual. Despite giving up playing the violin and piano to focus on hockey, she values the diverse experiences that shaped her childhood.

While pursuing hockey may cause a delay in achieving her goal of becoming a doctor, Selin remains determined to balance both passions. Her aspiration is clear – to become an Olympian doctor, and until then, she navigates the delicate equilibrium between sports and studies.