Jia De Guzman believes Eya Laure’s presence in Alas Pilipinas is a significant asset as they continue to gear up for the AVC Challenge Cup.
The roar of the Filipino crowd still echoes in Jia De Guzman's memory.
It was the 30th Southeast Asian Games, and a young Eya Laure stood beside her on the court. Despite her age, Laure displayed composure and grit that belied her years.
Five years later, the two reunite in the Alas Pilipinas, preparing once again to compete for national glory in the upcoming AVC Challenge Cup.
And over the years, De Guzman has witnessed Laure blossom into a reputable athlete whose impact can uplift and inspire the entire team.
[ALSO READ: A post-it promise: Cignal's Vanie Gandler makes Alas Pilipinas dream a reality]
“We we’re just talking about that. That was five years ago when we were last teammates in the SEA Games that was held here also,” Alas Pilipinas captain De Guzman shared to One Sports.
“So ngayon, si Eya she’s very vocal. She knows how to carry herself.
De Guzman said that Laure, who has emerged as a rising star for Chery Tiggo in the Premier Volleyball League, carries herself with such poise that she naturally influences those around her.
It's for this reason that the seasoned setter is delighted to see Laure's name included in the national team lineup.
“She knows how to carry herself, tsaka nadadala niya rin ‘yung people around her,” De Guzman said of the former UST Golden Tigress.
“That’s why I’m really happy na she’s also part of this lineup kasi nadadala niya kaming seniors, nadadala niya rin ang mga bata.”
[RELATED: Eya Laure thrilled to reunite with Sisi Rondina in Alas Pilipinas]
For her part, Laure relishes her reunion with De Guzman, along with her former UST teammate Sisi Rondina, while also looking forward to fostering new connections with the debutants on the national team.
“Mas marami na akong nilo-look forward na bago kasi nga for how many years ngayon lang ulit kami nagkasama nila ate Sisi and sila ate Jia. Siyempre iba ‘yung time talaga noong SEA Games 2019,” Laure said.
“Looking forward ako sa teammates ko ngayon, and may mga new additions, sila Angel [Canino], kasama rin. Very excited lang sa mga bagong learnings and experience na makukuha namin.”