For this latest edition of Off the Record, ZUS Coffee’s Jovelyn Gonzaga reflects on the deep bond she has with new Farm Fresh recruit, Rachel Anne Daquis.
For over a decade, Jovelyn Gonzaga and Rachel Anne Daquis have shared an incredible friendship that transcends the sport of volleyball.
The dynamic duo, known as #GonzAquis to adoring followers, has inspired countless fans and brought undeniable magic to the teams they've played with through their decorated careers.
Showcasing remarkable chemistry and strength as a tandem, the #GonzAquis duo arguably skyrocketed in fame in their time as Cignal HD Spikers.
After being briefly reunited with Team Awesome in 2023, #GonzAquis is separated again, with Jovelyn ready to embrace a new chapter with the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles.
Meanwhile, Rachel returns to the Philippine volleyball scene with the Farm Fresh Foxies after successfully launching the first Filipino bakery in Barcelona, Spain: Forn de Manila.
But the love for #GonzAquis endures, and for this edition of Off the Record, Jovelyn opens up about the profound friendship she shares with Rachel and gives her thoughts on her bff’s exciting new journey with the Foxies.
Their bond truly is a testament to the power of friendship, inspiring both on and off the court.
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One Sports: How would you describe your friendship with Rachel?
Jovelyn: Si Rachel talaga ‘yong pinakamatagal na relationship ko and hindi ako papayag na maputol pa ‘yon.
We’re friends for almost 13 or 14 years na. Gano’n kami ka-strong ni Rachel. And alam namin ‘yong mga wins and losses sa life namin. And updated kami lagi sa isa’t isa.
(Whether as teammates or opponents, the bond between #GonzAquis endures)
One Sports: What are your feelings about Rachel moving to Spain and pursuing baking?
Jovelyn: Actually, nag-US muna siya, eh. Sobrang supportive ako. Si Rachel kasi, gusto ang malawak na experience. And very supportive ako pagdating doon. And nagse-set siya ng example sa akin.
And imagine, leap of faith, eh. Hindi mo alam ang mae-experience mo doon sa ibang bansa. Pero knowing Rachel, tinuloy niya talaga ‘yon. Saludo ako doon sa kaniya.
One Sports: What are your thoughts on Rachel’s return to the PVL?
Jovelyn: Whatever man ang decision ni Rachel Daquis, kung gaano niya ako sinuportahan sa mga desisyon ko, and kung paano niya ako in-inspire makarating sa kung saan man ako ngayon, ganun din ang ibabalik ko. Sobra-sobra pa ang ibabalik kong support kay Rachel.