In the pulsating heart of Philippine volleyball, the return of a seasoned champion sends waves of excitement through the nation's courts.
Jia De Guzman, the decorated setter renowned for her finesse and tenacity, has announced her spirited return to represent the Philippines in the prestigious Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Challenge Cup for Women.
Fresh from her stellar performance with Japan's Denso Airybees, where she left an indelible mark despite the intense competition of the V.League season, De Guzman has set her sights on a new challenge – bringing glory to her homeland on the international stage.
With the news echoing across the volleyball community, De Guzman graciously shared her enthusiasm with the press during her attendance at the All-Filipino Conference finals.
Amidst the clamor of anticipation, she affirmed her commitment to don the Philippine colors once more, igniting the hopes of fans nationwide.
“Yes, I’m going to play in the upcoming AVC Challenge Cup," declared De Guzman, her voice resounding with determination and pride.
The eight-time PVL Best Setter exuded confidence as she spoke of her readiness to elevate the Philippine team's performance in the forthcoming tournament.
While the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) is yet to unveil the final roster, the anticipation mounts as De Guzman's return signals a formidable addition to the squad. PVL president Ricky Palou, offering insights into the team's preparations, hinted at a robust 20-man pool poised to showcase the nation's volleyball prowess.
For De Guzman, the opportunity to represent her country once more is a poignant reminder of her unwavering dedication to the sport she loves.
Reflecting on her past stint in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games, she expressed her thrill at the prospect of returning to the national stage after her enriching experience in Japan.
As the countdown to the tournament begins, De Guzman pledges her unwavering commitment to the Philippine cause, despite the limited preparation time. With a mere 10 days to fine-tune their strategy, she vows to lead by example, channeling her expertise and passion to propel the Philippine team to new heights.
“I know, very little preparation, but we’re going to give our best despite that. All the time naman, ready to step up for the flag, so excited ako to play for the Philippines again," affirmed the four-time PVL Finals MVP.
Recalling the team's past achievements, including a commendable sixth-place finish in the 2022 tournament, De Guzman remains steadfast in her belief in the team's potential.
