Jia de Guzman is beyond grateful for Alas Pilipinas' success in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup amid all the ups and downs she went through in the past year.
“Kaya pala, Lord.”
It’s been a whirlwind of emotions for team captain Jia de Guzman after steering Alas Pilipinas to a historic bronze medal finish in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup.
In a lengthy Instagram post, de Guzman shared her heartfelt reflections and gratitude following the Philippines' historic run in the tournament.
De Guzman, who is coming off a stellar stint in Japan V.League, admitted to experiencing many difficulties throughout the year. Nonetheless, she is grateful for being able to overcome these adversities.
“I’ve had countless difficult conversations with God over the course of my volleyball career, & the past year wasn’t any different. More than victories, there were even more heartbreaks, falling short, self-doubt, & being called to places I felt unqualified for,” said de Guzman.
“It’s in these moments that we realize that living a life of purpose doesn’t mean there will be no pain. Even love comes with pain, but it is worth it,” she added.
[ALSO READ: Jia de Guzman reflects on ‘surreal’ feeling after leading Alas Pilipinas to a historic bronze in AVC Challenge Cup]
The 29-year-old setter also expressed profound gratitude to several key figures and organizations supporting Alas Pilipinas's journey.
“To Sir Tats, the PNVF, my Rebisco family, our Alas Pilipinas sponsors, and my Under Armour family, thank you for allowing us to be the competitive athletes that we are & giving us the environment to just continue playing and be better,” said de Guzman.
“To the Alas Pilipinas fans & supporters, we are grateful for all your love and support from all around the world,” she added.
[ALSO READ: Jia De Guzman reflects on path to Best Setter award as Alas Pilipinas shine in AVC Challenge Cup]
She also shared a heartfelt message to her ever-supportive husband, Miguel, as well as her family.
“To my loving husband, you inspire me to be the best version I can be every day. Also to our families, relatives, and friends, thank you for being a constant source of love and support all these years,” said de Guzman.
[ALSO READ: May nanalo na!: Alas Pilipinas’ Jia Morado-de Guzman, Dawn Macandili-Catindig, and Thea Gagate are kilig overload with their partners’ greetings]
Of course, de Guzman’s appreciation also extended to her teammates and coaches.
“To my Alas Pilipinas teammates, coaches, Ms. Hollie, LO Bryle, & staff, I’m grateful for your unwavering commitment to each other & the country,” said de Guzman.
“How inspiring it was to work with everyone so eager to learn from the experience & generously share wisdom to others. That is why despite the short preparation, it felt so light since Day 1,” she added.
Finally, de Guzman offered words of encouragement to future players in the hopes of repeating or succeeding in the success they’ve started.
“Lastly, para sa mga paparating na Alas, may we continue to take this privilege, raise PH volleyball in any little way and open more doors for others,” said de Guzman.
“Malayo pa, pero malayo na. Patuloy pa rin ang laban para sa bayan,” she emphasized.