Hard work, passion, love for volleyball keys to Alyssa Valdez’ success

MANILA, Philippines —The ever-beaming Alyssa Valdez was cited anew for her contributions and accomplishments in volleyball – a sport which she has helped become popular in the country more than ever.

But of course she refuses to take the credit for it.

“Not only me. I think everyone contributed,” said a blushing Valdez when referred to as the face of Philippine volleyball. “The media, you guys are the reason why volleyball is like this now.”

The Ateneo star was the recipient of the Ms. Volleyball honor from the Philippine Sportswriters Association for the second straight year.

The 21-year-old Valdez has been one of the biggest reasons why volleyball is enjoying much success for the last three years.

And being admired by thousands of fans and emulated by hundreds of kids who have started taking up the sport of volleyball, Valdez knows she carries a lot of responsibilities on her shoulders.

“Of course I have to be more careful of the things that I’m doing,” Valdez told INQUIRER.net during the Awards Night on Monday.

But more than just being a role model, Valdez stressed that her unwavering passion for the sport of volleyball are just as important.

“I think one of the most important things that I have to maintain is to be able to show the people, especially the kids, that I’m playing because I love the sport and I’m staying because of the passion that I have for the sport of volleyball.”

Valdez also stressed that no one gets by on talent alone: hard work and love for the sport will get you just as far.

“I hope that’s also what the kids see—that they’re playing because they love the sport and I hope they see that you have to be hard working. You cannot just win and you cannot just be talented in just one night,” said Valdez, who made a name for herself as a high school standout in University of Santo Tomas before taking her talents to Ateneo where she became even a brighter star.

“Coach Tai always reminds us to do better every day and improve ourselves every day because at the end of the day, we have a lot to improve,” added Valdez, who turned heads in a dress that fit her like a glove, referring to her mentor Tai Bundit.