Fifi Sharma’s volleyball journey has taken an exciting turn with her stellar debut in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup, playing for Alas Pilipinas Women.
The young athlete showcased her prowess on the court, averaging 7.6 points over five games, and played a crucial role in securing the Philippines’ first medal in the AVC since 1961.
In a thrilling bronze-clinching match against Australia at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, Sharma contributed seven points, helping her team to a decisive victory with set scores of 25-23, 25-15, and 25-7.
“Honestly, mas tumaas pa lalo yung pangarap ko,” said Sharma, daughter of former PBA player Carlo Sharma. “Given it's the highest level, I want to reach more and further in my career. I'm super excited about what's to come.”
Sharma credits the team’s success to its strong support system. The leadership from both the players and coaches played a pivotal role in uniting the squad, which included stars from the Premier Volleyball League and standout players from the UAAP.
“We have good leaders and we have a good coaching staff. Everybody is just so supportive of everything. That's the main reason why everyone has good spirits coming into every game. We just have a good support system,”Sharma emphasized.
A former UAAP champion with La Salle, Sharma feels fortunate to be part of this historic team. She particularly cherishes the opportunity to play alongside one of the country’s best playmakers, Jia de Guzman.
“Honestly, I just feel so lucky because we got the bronze medal kasi each and every one of us worked as a team and of course we have a really great setter like Ate Jia. So I'm just really lucky, that's how I feel, really lucky,” she said.
Reflecting on her experience, Sharma added, “Feels good! As I said, I'm just super lucky to be a part of this team and that everyone just worked super well together.”
