The remarkable talents of today's PVL stars are undeniably inspiring, yet it's equally motivating to know that these athletes were once guided by the players they look up to.
Even the icons we admire have their own heroes.
While we admire the incredible talents of today’s PVL stars like Galeries Tower Highrisers’ Carly Hernandez. Julia Coronel, Dimdim Pacres, Ivy Perez, and Remy Palma of the Petro Gazz Angels, and Mika Reyes and Savi Davison of the PLDT High Speed Hitters, it’s inspiring to know that even they have idols who shaped their journeys to greatness.
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One name that stands out as a beacon of inspiration is volleyball veteran Rachel Anne Daquis. With her exceptional skills, leadership, and passion for the game, Rachel has left an indelible mark on the sport, paving the way for many young athletes who now shine in the PVL.
Among those who have been deeply influenced by her are Carly Hernandez of the Galeries Tower Highrisers and Remy Palma of the Petro Gazz Angels.
“My volleyball idol is ate Rachel talaga. Like elementary [pa lang], idol ko na,” shared 24-year-old Carly.
Remy, too, credits Rachel as her source of inspiration.
“Masasabi ko talaga si ate Rachel kasi no’ng time na na-hook ako sa pag-watch ng volleyball, like televised na siya, si Ate Rachel talaga that time ‘yong pinakasikat na volleyball player. Also the way she plays and her leadership talaga.”
Ate Jia FTW
Julia Coronel has never hidden her admiration for her longtime idol, the legendary setter and leader of Alas Pilipinas, Jia Morado-De Guzman. An eight-time PVL Best Setter and now an import for Denso Airybees, Jia’s influence on the game is undeniable.
During their time together on the court for Alas Pilipinas, the young Juju had the privilege of learning from her idol, cherishing every moment and lesson shared with Ate Jia.
“Alam naman ng lahat na ang volleyball idol ko talaga is Ate Jia Morado,” Julia said, proudly acknowledging the powerful impact Jia has had on her journey.
Going international
Dimdim Pacres has found her own source of inspiration in Turkish volleyball veteran Melissa Vargas, whose remarkable talent on the court continues to leave a lasting impression.
“Kasi syempre opposite [hitter] siya then pinapanood ko sa mga reels ‘yong the way siya maglaro and pumalo. Sobrang wow. Ang galing talaga,” Dimdim shared, captivated by Melissa’s incredible skills and powerful spikes.
Dream come true
From her early days in elementary school, Ivy Perez has always looked up to the legendary Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, the player who inspired her to pick up volleyball in the first place. That childhood admiration has come full circle as Ivy now plays alongside her idol with the Petro Gazz Angels, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
"Since elementary, since nag-start ako mag-volleyball. Nakita ko, parang na-love at first sight ako sa kaniya," Ivy shared, her voice filled with emotion as she recalled the first time she saw Aiza play.
"Sa paglalaro. ‘Di kami talo ni Nang," she added with a playful smile.
Lodi teammate
From their time together as teammates on the DLSU Lady Spikers, Mika Reyes has always held a deep admiration for the leadership and wisdom of veteran Cha Cruz-Behag.
“Nakasama ko siya sa college, sa La Salle. Siya ‘yong team captain namin, siya ‘yong senior ko that time. Sa kaniya talaga ako maraming natutunan,” Mika shared, reflecting on the invaluable lessons she gained from Cha’s guidance and experience.
No rivalry
Even as Savi Davison competes against Choco Mucho star Sisi Rondina, her admiration for Sisi remains unwavering.
“I do look up to Sisi. I love her drive. I love how passionate she is. So I think she’s my idol,” Savi shared, drawing inspiration from Sisi's relentless determination and fiery passion for the game.
Though they come from different teams and different generations, the admiration these volleyball players have for their idols transcends time and rivalry. It's a shared respect that highlights the universal inspiration found in the greatness of others.
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