(CNN Philippines) — Aby Maraño is officially headed to the Southeast Asian Games (SEAG).
Maraño was initially part of the national team roster headed for the Asian Senior Women’s Volleyball Championship in China, but gave up her spot to be part of the squad that will compete in the biennial meet in Singapore.
Her reason?
“It’s my first time playing for the national team so I want to maximize the experience,” the reigning Philippine SuperLiga 2nd Best Attacker told CNN Philippines.
“To be fair to both teams, instead na half effort lang ang mabigay ko to each team, it is better to give up one na lang and I am so happy that coach Sam (Acaylar) is very open-minded with this.
“Pinayagan niya naman ako because alam niya na pangarap ko din yun. I don’t know if I’ll get this opportunity again that is why I did not hesitate to choose (the SEA Games).”
In photos: Team Pilipinas’ first training session for SEA Games
Maraño said she leaned towards the SEAG because the high level of competition expected from other countries will help hone her skills.
“With the SEA Games, I believe I can play against better competition, against other national teams, and learn from that,” added the Petron skipper.
“‘Yun din talaga yung habol ko yung mas maraming matutunan, lalo sa international level.”
Joining Maraño will be Alyssa Valdez, Jia Morado, Denden Lazaro, Rhea Dimaculangan, Maika Ortiz, Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, Dindin Santiago-Manabat, Jaja Santiago, Gretchel Soltones, Rachel Anne Daquis, and Jovelyn Gonzaga.
The team, who will be coached by Roger Gorayeb, is eyeing to win its first medal in the SEA Games since the Philippines won a bronze medal in 2005.
The national squad will fly to Singapore on June 4, but the volleyball competition starts on June 10.
