The National University duo of Alyssa Solomon and Bella Belen have declined participation in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup for Women.
The two Lady Bulldogs informed outgoing Alas Pilipinas Women head coach Jorge Souza De Brito that they would not be able to participate in the tournament.
Both cited the need for recovery after a grueling UAAP Season 86 Women’s Volleyball campaign.
Prior to declining the invitation, the two young players hinted that they intend to focus on studies, rest, and recovery from their respective injuries.
“After this, I will focus on school because I have my final thesis and I also have an OJT that we haven’t been able to attend much because we’ve been focused on training. Maybe we’ll prioritize school for now,” said Belen, the two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player.
“I’m not sure yet because Ate Aly (Solomon) has a check-up for her injury. Maybe she’ll report to school first and then maybe we’ll enjoy the championship for a bit,” Belen added about Finals MVP Solomon.
Attending the practices were PVL pros Eya Laure, Fifi Sharma, Dell Palomata, Faith Nisperos, Vanie Gandler, Cherry Nunag, Jia De Guzman, Dawn Catindig, Jennifer Nierva, and Sisi Rondina, along with the La Salle trio of Thea Gagate, Angel Canino, and Julia Coronel.
UE rookie Casiey Dongallo also declined due to a right arm injury.
The Philippines, placed in Group A, will open its campaign against Australia on Thursday at 7:00 PM at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
