Corralled Maraño does more than just focusing on her work

On the court, her job is to make sure the open and opposite hitters of the enemy get enough coverage. So it’s not surprising that volleyball star Aby Maraño likes to strike a balance even off of it.

She may be known for her strong presence on the court, sliding hits and staredowns, but Maraño swears it’s not all work when it comes to her own life.Especially in these lockdown days.

In the morning, the 27-year-old national team captain would do her usual workout routine as if there’s an ongoing Philippine Superliga season.

“I want to keep myself fit, eat healthy and be productive,” she told the Inquirer.

It’s particularly tough, though, when she’s working out because she has to do it all by herself these days.

“I got used to shouting during workouts to push myself and my teammates,” Maraño said.Nowadays she said she can’t just yell “let’s go” every time she needs a big finish in her exercise routine.

The next hours, she said, are devoted to writing her final paper for her master’s degree. She’s finishing her master’s degree in Philippine studies, majoring in Filipino mass media.

“I also read books for my thesis. That keeps me occupied most of the day,” said Maraño, the charismatic middle blocker for F2 Logistics.

She said she tries to finish everything before night time.

That’s because by 10 p.m., she stops and sits by her computer for her usual session of Mobile Legends, the highly popular online game.

“Naka-schedule na ’yan (It’s on my regular schedule),” said Maraño, who also fills her time making digital video content for social platforms like Tiktok.

Clearly, her priorities are evenly split between what keeps her sharp and what keeps her happy.