Jennifer Nierva was left in awe after witnessing the dedication and willingness her teammates displayed throughout Alas Pilipinas Women’s short buildup for the upcoming AVC Challenge Cup.
Despite being formed just less than two weeks before the start of the tournament, Nierva shared that the players wholeheartedly attended practices and took the necessary steps to accelerate their development and chemistry.
“This is the first time na na-feel ko na everybody here na talagang willingly they want to be part of the national team. Narinig ko from them na talagang sila ‘yung nagsabi mismo kay coach na, ‘Coach, I want to be part of the national team,” said Nierva.
“That step is really a big step na you willingly want to be part of the national team. ‘Yun ‘yung talaga gusto and maganda ipakita sa mga bata,” she added.
Nierva said it also helped that the squad has battle-tested veterans like Jia De Guzman and Dawn Macandili-Catindig, who are willing to guide the younger players in their first stint with the senior national team.
“Sa training palang namin, nakikita ko na parang hindi ganun kalaki ‘yung adjustments because we have our ates who are great leaders na isang sabi lang nila and ‘yung mga bata kami, great followers also,” said the Chery Tiggo defensive ace.
Nierva, who will share libero duties with Catindig, said that she is very grateful for the opportunity to represent the Philippines and play alongside some of the country’s best volleyball players.
“I’m only 18 charot. So, kaming mga bata…sobrang great follower kami sa mga ate namin. Pag-pasok ko nga kanina sa hotel sabi ko, ‘Ate Dawn, ang sarap mo maging ate.’”
The former National University standout vowed to give Alas Pilipinas her best as she looks to help the national team breakthrough in the AVC Challenge Cup.
“I really am excited sa magiging journey namin and this opportunity na hindi lahat nabibigyan. We’re very grateful and honored to be here to be given a chance to represent the country, so I definitely believe na malayo mararating ng team.”
