After more than a year away from the court, Rachel Anne Daquis is back—not to chase accolades, but to pave the way for the next generation. The volleyball icon made her long-awaited return to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), suiting up for Farm Fresh in the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference with a mission far greater than winning: mentorship.
The 37-year-old outside hitter, who last played for Cignal before taking a break in 2024 to focus on her business ventures, made a surprise comeback with the Foxies, eager to instill the values of leadership and smart play in her young teammates.
“Unang-una, ‘yung contribution ko sa team—sobrang meaningful nitong comeback para sa akin. Wala na akong hinahabol sa career ko; para na ito sa mga bata,” Daquis shared after her return against Galeries Tower on Thursday night.
Known for her relentless energy and charismatic leadership, the Far Eastern University legend understands that her presence on the court extends beyond scoring points. It’s about setting an example—both in action and in attitude.
“‘Yun ‘yung magiging biggest contribution ko sa kanila—kung paano ako mag-lead sa loob ng court, paano sila maging intact na puwede nilang sundan. Gumagawa lang tayo ng blueprint para sa kanila,” she added.
After 551 days away from professional volleyball, Daquis checked into the game late in the first set, marking her return with a crucial point in the second frame. Her presence, though brief, helped stabilize the Foxies as they powered past the Highrisers in four sets, 28-26, 17-25, 25-19, 25-17, at the Philsports Arena.
For Farm Fresh, Daquis' experience is invaluable. While young stars like Trisha Tubu (who erupted for 33 points) are taking charge offensively, the veteran sees her role as the team’s anchor, ensuring everyone stays connected and focused.
“‘Yun ‘yung nakikita kong magiging best contribution ko sa team. Kita mo naman, 33 points si [Trisha] Tubu—nandiyan na lahat, kumpleto na ‘yung bala. So ang tanong na lang, paano namin lalaruin ‘yung laro namin at paano ko sila matutulungang maging intact. Parang ako ‘yung glue, so ‘yun ‘yung pinaka-mahalaga,” Daquis explained.
As she embraces this new chapter of her career, Daquis has adjusted her playing style. Once known for her explosive attacks, she now leans on her volleyball IQ to outmaneuver opponents and teach her teammates the nuances of the game.
“Before, I loved playing with power. Ngayon, I love playing smarter. Sa ensayo pa lang, ginugulangan ko na ‘yung mga teammates ko,” she quipped, laughing.
“Totoo ‘yun, galit na galit sila! Pero ‘yun ‘yung nasa isip ko—hindi mo laging kailangan ng power. Ngayon, kailangan mong maging mas matalino. Sa dami ng batang malalakas ngayon, lamang pa rin ang marunong maglaro nang matalino. Kaya ‘yun ‘yung talagang ina-eye ko na ipasa sa kanila.”
