As AC Miner takes a bold leap from collegiate star to professional athlete, she won’t be doing it alone — her biggest supporter is right by her side.
The former Ateneo standout is set to enter the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Draft, and cheering her on in person is none other than her father, Clifford Miner, who flew in all the way from Jackson, Tennessee just to witness the milestone.
“Siyempre, I’m very thankful that my dad took time out of his week—kasi three weeks siya nandito—just to see me get drafted tonight. Very thankful for that,” said AC just hours before draft night.
Despite being based in the United States and often missing her games in person, Clifford has remained a constant figure in AC’s volleyball journey. Whether it was through late-night livestreams or video calls, he’s always found a way to show up.
“I’ve basically been on the internet and Facebook with her, usually about twice a week. Before every game, I remind her to do her best and that I’m looking forward to a win. Of course, the ultimate goal is to win, but even if you don’t, just play your game,” Clifford shared.
He admitted he hasn’t been heavily involved in her training, but his emotional support has never wavered. “I hadn’t done a lot to prepare her other than just encourage her every time I get face to face — ’cause I live overseas in the States.”
For Clifford, being present on draft night is more than just a proud parent moment — it’s a full-circle experience.
“Well, it’s like a culmination of all these years she’s been playing volleyball. This is a pivotal point, to go pro and be selected for the next level of play. I’m looking forward to her landing with a good team and doing well at this next level,” he said.
AC, now 22, echoed the sentiment, crediting her parents’ unwavering support as a key pillar throughout her volleyball career.
“Masasabi ko lang na very thankful ako na from the start of my volleyball career, I [have] very supportive parents. And until now, coming to the professional league, same pa rin yung support nila,” she said.
“Actually, mas nahigitan pa nga since nung simula. And as I take this step into the professional league, their support hasn’t changed—mas nararamdaman ko pa ngayon kaysa noon.”
As she prepares to enter a new chapter with the bright lights of the PVL, her father’s presence is a reminder that no matter how far the journey takes her, home will always be close — especially when it shows up thousands of miles away just to cheer her on.
“I’ve always told her throughout the years… Just be the best, do the best you can do. Be a team player — there’s no ‘I’ in team. I’ve always tried to give her positive input so she plays her game and just gives it her all.”
