Savannah Davison and Brooke Van Sickle are brimming with excitement at the prospect of representing the Philippines on the international volleyball stage. After deciding to switch federations, the two standout players are eager to don the country’s colors and contribute to its growing volleyball scene.
Having spent several months playing in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), Fil-Canadian Davison and Fil-American Van Sickle have developed a deep appreciation for Philippine volleyball. Their passion for the sport and desire to help elevate the country’s performance internationally have only grown stronger.
“If given the opportunity, it would be surreal to represent the Philippines. Representing any country is a huge achievement, but representing a country where the support and love for the game reach different heights is something you can only dream of,” Davison shared.
Van Sickle echoed her teammate's sentiments, expressing her honor at the possibility of representing the Philippines. “It's definitely an honor to be able to represent the Philippines for sure. We're still working out things, I'm just doing what I'm told. But it will be an honor for sure,” she said after the conclusion of the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
Currently, Van Sickle and her Petro Gazz teammate MJ Phillips, along with Davison, are in the process of switching federations. Van Sickle and Phillips are affiliated with USA Volleyball, while Davison is registered under Volleyball Canada.
Van Sickle made a significant impact in her debut season, being named Most Valuable Player and helping Petro Gazz secure a bronze medal after a thrilling third-place series against Chery Tiggo.
Davison, meanwhile, has been a key player for the PLDT High Speed Hitters, leading them to another strong finish in the PVL.
Both players have been deeply moved by the passion of Philippine volleyball fans, and they are eager to give back by representing the national team.
“I am super grateful to even be having these conversations about maybe being a part of the National Team. Hopefully, it will allow some opportunities for learning more about Philippine volleyball,” said Davison, who hails from Toronto, Canada.
Van Sickle, whose mother is from San Emilio, Ilocos Sur, shared her gratitude for the warm welcome she has received.
“I'd be super grateful to be able to represent this country and I'm welcomed with open arms. I'll work hard,” she promised.
The duo has also discussed their potential collaboration for the national team, with Davison revealing that they have touched on the topic of switching federations.
“I have not talked to Brooke specifically about the switching of federations, but we have touched on it a couple of times. I think both she and I are just waiting to hear what comes next.”
As they await the final steps of their federation switch, Davison and Van Sickle remain committed to their PVL teams and the potential opportunity to bring glory to the Philippines on the international volleyball stage.