Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — News that Thai clubs were eyeing Filipina players to bolster their squad excited volleyball fans in the Philippines this week, but Aby Maraño said she was already aware of foreign interest for some time now.
Philippine Super Liga (PSL) President Tats Suzara previously revealed that Maraño, along with Jaja Santiago, Kim Fajardo, and Jovelyn Gonzaga have piqued the interest of Thailand-based teams as imports for upcoming competitions.
But after a stint in Thailand with Foton Pilipinas in August, Maraño told CNN Philippines’ Sports Desk that her play has already turned heads then.
“Nagulat ako nung umpisa, though alam ko na prior to that news na may gustong kumuha sa akin na coach from Thailand,” Maraño bared.
[Translation: “I was surprised at first, but I knew that before news broke that there was a coach from Thailand that wanted to get me,” Maraño bared.]
Maraño went on to share that a Thai coach spoke to Foton staff about the possibility of having her play in Thailand next year.
Since that trip to Thailand, the prized middle-blocker added that there has been no further contact regarding any transfer.
Even if nothing concrete has been put on the table, Maraño said that it was still flattering to know that she has attracted interest.
“Napakasarap sa feeling na may ibang coach na naka-appreciate sa akin, na nakita yung hard work ko, although ganito lang yung height ko,” the former La Salle standout said. “Tapos magiging import ako, parang suntok sa buwan ito.”
[Translation: “It is a good feeling that there is another coach that appreciates me, that sees my hard work, even if I am only this height,” the former La Salle standout said. “Then I’ll be an import, it’s like a punch to the moon.”]
As of writing, only Thai 3BB Nakornnont club has announced that they will be working on importing Filipina outside hitter Alyssa Valdez into their domestic league.
