‘Play for country’ mentality needed for PH volley, says Gomez

Richard Gomez FILE PHOTO

It’s all in the mind. A united mind.

Richard Gomez, a staunch supporter of Philippine sports, said that for the country to achieve greatness in volleyball, everyone should have the mentality to play for flag and country.

“Once we get the the mentality that we have to play for the country, that is the only time that the Philippines will soar to higher levels,” Gomez said after the Philippine Super Liga All-Filipino Cup Finals at Cuneta Astrodome.

He said the development is hampered by organizations differing in views, which ends up with players not being allowed to join other teams.

“I’m just hoping that the leaders of volleyball [here in the country] join together to produce a better team. We have the players,” Gomez said.

The veteran actor added that Filipino volleyball players should play smart, and not just with heart.

“Mahirap sabihin na kailangan lumaban tayo ng may puso kasi mahirap maging emotional sa court (It’s hard to say that we should fight with heart, it’s difficult to get too emotional on the court),” Gomez said. “It’s really more of a mental game, mental toughness.”

Filipinos are usually the smallest players in international competitions but Gomez said height is not a hindrance.

In the recently-concluded Asian U23 Women’s Volleyball Championships, the Philippines had one of the smallest teams with only middle blocker Jaja Santiago standing above six feet.

Thailand, meanwhile, finished second in the inaugural tournament and got a slot for the World U23 Championships.

He also noted Japan, whose players are small compared to other nations in the world tournaments, excels in the sport.

“Height is might but if you have the skills, you can catch up, you can play with them,”

Gomez said.