Volleyball queen Alyssa Valdez has done everything in Philippine volleyball, but she has no plans to retire and wants to play in the Philippine Volleyball League (PVL).
One of the best Philippine volleyball players of all time, the former Ateneo and current Creamline superstar has built an unparalleled career resume of eight PVL championships, three PVL MVPs, and eight Best Outside Hitter awards, all record-highs, among many other awards.
However, in recent conferences, Valdez has struggled to stay on the court due to multiple injuries, prompting fans to consider the thought that they are beginning to see the end of the legendary volleyball icon’s career.
In an interview, the 30-year-old veteran shared that even though she has not been in her best form for quite some time, she is not done with the taraflex courts.
“Right now, my main priority is to get back 100%, and hopefully, it will finally happen soon,” she said.
“I’m praying for that too, and I’m working hard to achieve that.”
“I can’t say how long I will be able to play, but for sure, I want to play 100% first before I say goodbye to the volleyball court, not to the volleyball community, but to the court.”
Although he had some moments this past PVL conference, most notably an injury-hindered 1-point performance in the All-Filipino finals Game 2, Valdez also showed flashes of vintage dominance, such as his 21-point eruption against Choco Mucho in the semifinals.
Still burning with the same competition that launched her to international fame a few years ago, Valdez wants to push herself to be the best against the next and current generation of volleyball stars, both in the Philippines. and abroad if there are opportunities.
“Looking at it, the level of volleyball competition has risen to new highs only here in the Philippines. I’ve been playing volleyball for quite some time, and at this age, you really want to go toe-to-toe and face even the younger guys. That’s my goal,” she continued.
“Human nature: athletes are very competitive. We can say that we are really proud of them, but deep inside, you are also challenged to be better and improve yourself. I think it’s a healthy competition.
Hopefully, we can all compete in the PVL and learn from each other.”
Valdez admitted that she is not the same as before because she was hit by an injury and that she’s not getting any younger.
But like any other great sports icon, he wants to give her career another healthy shot while she still can.
Valdez wants out on his own terms, and that’s not coming anytime soon.
