.jpg)
Alyssa Valdez triumphantly returned to the court after a grueling seven-month hiatus due to a right knee injury.
Valdez's remarkable comeback took place during Creamline's match against Chery Tiggo in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference, where she showcased her skills, contributing three points and 10 excellent digs to secure a decisive victory of 25-22, 25-22, 25-17 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre on Tuesday night.
Valdez, a former league MVP and captain of the national team for the SEA Games, expressed her relief and excitement at finally being able to play volleyball again.
Reflecting on her long road to recovery, she remarked, "It's quite different talaga. Siguro this is the longest time that I've never played volleyball in my life. Six months. They always remind me not to rush and I really have to trust the process, one step at a time. So, that's it."
As Valdez approaches her 30th birthday, she acknowledged the importance of prioritizing her physical well-being and adapting to the changing demands of her sport. Recognizing the mental challenges that came with her injury and age, she emphasized the need to take better care of her body moving forward.
"I think it's really a mental challenge coming in, knowing that I'm not getting any younger and I had my injury just recently. So, I have to really take care of my body," Valdez affirmed.
Valdez's absence from the Cool Smashers lineup for the past six months had left a noticeable void, both in terms of her exceptional skills and her invaluable leadership. The injury, sustained during Game 2 of the 2022 PVL Reinforced Conference bronze series, forced Valdez to endure an arduous rehabilitation process.
As she stepped back onto the court, she admitted to feeling like a rookie once again, needing to navigate her way through the game's intricacies.
"Honestly, I really don't know how to prepare for a game anymore, except for the SEA Games, but it's definitely different from the PVL. But whatever needs to be brought, the nervousness is there, it's a different kind of nervousness and excitement," shared Valdez.
Despite her uncertainties, she embraced the challenge with the same enthusiasm and dedication she possessed when she first burst onto the volleyball scene.
Valdez's humility and genuine passion for the sport shone through as she embraced her "rookie mentality," vowing to be herself, enjoy the game, and support her teammates.
The experience of returning to the court reminded her of the joy and camaraderie that volleyball brings, motivating her to contribute to her team's success.
