(CNN Philippines) — The Philippines is looking to write history when it hosts the inaugural Asian U23 Women’s Volleyball Championship from May 1 to 9 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
Leading the charge for the national squad is reigning University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) MVP Alyssa Valdez, who is looking forward to representing the country in an international competition.
“I’m very honored that I will be wearing the national flag. I’m very blessed to be a part of this tournament,” said Valdez at the press conference on Thursday (April 30).
“Honestly speaking, we don’t expect anything. We’ll just do our best.”
Watch: National U23 volleyball team to expect full support from fans
Valdez will be joined by National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) MVP Gretchel Soltones, Ella De Jesus, Jhoana Maraguinot, Julia Morado, Risa Sato and Bea De Leon.
The national team, which will be coached by Roger Gorayeb, also consists of EJ Laure, Ria Meneses, Myla Pablo, Jaja Santiago, and Christine Agno.
The Philippines is bracketed in Pool A together with powerhouses Iran and Kazakhstan.
“Sobrang tangkad nila. We haven’t seen them play. But we’re preparing for every game na ibibigay sa amin,” Valdez said of Iran and Kazakhstan.
Photos: Last day of training for Philippine U23 volleyball squad
Pool B is composed of China, India, and Macau, while Japan, Chinese-Taipei, and Maldives will slug it out in Pool C.
South Korea, Thailand, and Uzbekistan are grouped in Pool D.
Asked on what their edge will be over the other teams, Valdez says the support from fans will boost their chances in the competition.
“Siguro yung home court. ‘Pag tumingin kami sa crowd, sobrang familiar na. We’ll just enjoy the games.”
The tournament will serve as the qualifier for the 2015 FIVB Women’s U23 Volleyball World Championship which will take place in Ankara, Turkey on August 12-19.
