As Thea Gagate fulfills her dream of playing in the national team, she is equally determined to prove her rightful place among the ranks of Alas Pilipinas.
As Thea Gagate prepares to make her debut for Alas Pilipinas, she carries with her the weight of expectations and the fervor of proving her mettle on an international stage.
Gagate, who has already made waves in the UAAP as a champion and multiple-time Best Middle Blocker with La Salle, is determined to demonstrate that her collegiate success is no mere fluke.
“Personally I’ll really do my best to bring out the awards that I’ve received sa college, which is ‘yung Best Middle Blocker. I’ll really do my best na mai-apply ‘yun sa every game,” Gagate shared to One Sports.
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Beyond proving her worth, Gagate feels deeply honored to don the tricolors of the country. It is, after all, the realization of a dream she has held since childhood.
“Of course, I’m very happy and grateful that binigyan ako ng opportunity na makasama sa team Philippines ‘cause, again, this has always been my dream as an athlete, and I’m grateful to be given this opportunity,” she said.
The AVC Challenge Cup, happening from May 22 to 29, serves as a vital proving ground for Gagate while also offering an invaluable chance to deepen connections with her teammates.
Among these teammates are familiar faces from her time at La Salle, such as Fifi Sharma, Julia Coronel, and Angel Canino. Then, there are others whom she greatly admires, Jia Morado-De Guzman in particular.
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“Very happy and thrilled, ‘yun nga, and very exciting kasi nakasama ulit namin ‘yung mga former teammates namin like si Fifi, and ‘yung ibang teammates ko rin sa college,” Gagate said.
“And ‘yun, it’s an honor din na naging teammate ko ngayon like, ‘yung mga superstars ko na ates like sila ate Jia Morado-De Guzman.”
As she prepares to represent the flag and country, Gagate pledges to give her all, leaving nothing but her heart on the court.
“Ibibigay lang din namin ‘yung best namin kasi for me, I’m not really putting pressure kasi I just want to do my best, and showcase my talent kasi this is my first ever,” she vowed.
“I’ll just really do my best, and help contribute to the team.”