A new chapter begins for Justine!
Justine Jazareno will not be suiting up for the Akari Chargers in the upcoming PVL season as she takes a leave of absence to focus on her pregnancy.
Jazareno’s management, VP Global Management, announced that the 23-year-old libero is set to prepare for the birth of her first child with longtime partner, Jhonas.
“We’re excited to share that our volleyball star, Ms. Justine Jazareno, is eagerly anticipating the joys of motherhood. She has made the decision to take a leave of absence from the game to focus on her forthcoming bundle of joy,” wrote VP Global Management in a statement.
VP Global Management also thanked Akari for being supportive of the former De La Salle Lady Spiker star
“We thank the Akari Chargers for fully expressing their continued support as she embarks on this beautiful journey,” the management said.
“As we eagerly await Justine’s triumphant return to the Akari Chargers, let us send her and her longtime partner Jhonas our warmest wishes as they embark on this new and exciting chapter of their lives,” they added.
In an Instagram story, Jazareno expressed her gratitude.
"No regrets, just love. See you all again soon!"
Jazareno was a recent addition to the Chargers back in the PVL Second All-Filipino Conference, where she provided a spark whenever called upon by the team.
During that conference, Akari finished in seventh place with a 5-6 record.
Without Jazareno for the upcoming PVL season, the Chargers will likely rely on veteran libero Bang Pineda for floor defense.
Currently, the Chargers are competing in the Akari Cup where they are 2-0 in the standings.
Akari had a rather busy offseason, signing stars Grethcel Soltones and Ced Domingo, while also promoting Raffy Mosuela as interim coach and signing Tina Salak as part of the team’s coaching staff.