‘True warrior’ Sue Roces retires from volleyball

Veteran volleyball player Sue Roces. PVL MEDIA BUREAU

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine volleyball community honored veteran spiker Sue Roces, who earlier announced her retirement at 37 following a colorful career.

Roces played for the University of the East in the UAAP and won multiple titles while serving as a guest player for several teams back in the Shakey’s V-League.

But apart from her skills, Roces was also known for her character.

Thank you and good luck in your next journey, @sueroces, from your PVL family 🙌 🙌 🙌 pic.twitter.com/BJBn19afAM

— Premier Volleyball League (@PVLph) January 18, 2022

“We are grateful to have had a player like Sue Roces in our league. Coming from University of the East, she was a true warrior, never backing down from any challenge,” Premier Volleyball League president Ricky Palou said in a statement on Tuesday.

“Back in our early days, Sue would be a gues player for numerous schools, including Adamson, UST, San Sebastian, and Ateneo. She was not only a player there but also became a mentor to the student-athletes in the schools she joined. We knew from there that she has a future in coaching.”

Roces was the Rookie of the Year in UAAP Season 65. She last played for the Perlas Spikers in the PVL.

“Though it is sad to see her retire, we would also like to celebrate her career. We are thankful to have helped in developing her and it was an honor seeing her grow, not just as a player but also as a person. Thank you, Sue! good luck on your next journey!”

Fellow players also sent out their well wishes for the Roces.

In a Twitter post, Roces thanked fans for believing in her abilities throughout her career and likewise showed appreciation for the PVL.

“I’m happy I was able to share my talents through this league. You are one of those who helped me grow as an athlete. I’m very blessed because PVL played a big part in my journey,” she said in Filipino.