Valdez looks forward to unity as PH volleyball set to return this year

FILE PHOTO – Alyssa Valdez. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Alyssa Valdez is upbeat about the return of volleyball games this year with the country deprived of volleyball action since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

“Of course I’m very happy. As of the moment, of course, I’m actually looking forward to having the games back, and hopefully, the federation will help to keep it going,” said Valdez on Tuesday during the PSA Forum.

The 27-year-old Valdez is also raring to be back playing with Creamline in the Premier Volleyball League.

The PVL is set to launch its maiden professional season in a bubble at Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna.

“I’m really excited to actually play again,” said Valdez, regarded by many as the current face of Philippine volleyball.

The former Ateneo star is also hopeful that the formation of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation Inc. (PNVFI), which now serves as the country’s national sports association for volleyball, will pave way for a stronger bond within Philippine volleyball.

“The federation has just been formed. We’ll wait for that and hopefully, it’s better to have unity aside from those elected so that they will be able to spread the unity and off the court,” Valdez said.

“We’re looking forward to their meetings and future statements they have to offer for all of us.”