During the PVL Combine for Free Agents on Wednesday, Judith Abil stood poised, ready to reclaim her place in the spotlight.
Just months ago, the future looked uncertain for the dynamic outside hitter after her contract with Nxled, the Premier Volleyball League powerhouse, was not renewed following the 2023 season.
Abil burst onto the scene with Nxled, captivating fans with her infectious energy.
However, her journey hit a roadblock after the 2023 Second All-Filipino Conference, when the team opted not to extend her contract, leaving her volleyball career hanging by a thread.
“Nung nalaman ko na hindi ako mare-renew sa Nxled, ngayon dapat na year is magwo-work na talaga ako like change career, hindi na magvo-volleyball. Tatalikuran ko sana this year si volleyball pero nag-open pa rin ‘yung door parang sige volleyball ulit," shared Abil, reflecting on the uncertainty she faced.
The combine offered Abil and other free agents a lifeline back into the league.
Surrounded by scouts and representatives from PVL teams, Abil and other hopefuls underwent rigorous tests of athleticism, from strength and agility to endurance and jump performance.
"Sobrang laking opportunity siya para sa aming mga free agents na walang manager na humahawak sa amin para maipakita kung anong meron kaming skills talaga. Like wala kaming backup na tumutulong sa amin, yung skills lang talaga maio-offer namin," said Abil.
For Abil, who had spent the early part of the year with the Comelec Suffragettes in the UNTV Volleyball League, the combine represented more than just a chance to showcase her athletic prowess.
It was a testament to her resilience and unwavering passion for the sport she loves.
“Siguro may rason kung bakit hindi ako na-renew sa Nxled, may reason siguro lahat. Pray lang kung anong resulta nitong lahat,” Abil remarked.
As day two of the combine loomed, Abil remained undaunted, wearing her trademark smile and a renewed sense of purpose.
Unlike draft applicants, free agents like her could be signed directly based on their performance during the scrimmages ahead.
“Sobrang thankful din po (sa fans). Nung nag labas ang PVL sa free agent, ‘yun din po, maraming nag-message, maraming nag-comment. Parang naglakas loob din na what if magpasa ako sa PVL sa free agents,” Abil acknowledged, her gratitude evident as she prepared to seize whatever opportunities lay ahead.
As the combine continued, all eyes were on Abil and her fellow free agents, each eager to prove that they belonged back on the court.
