Kim Gequillana has decided to hang up her sneakers.
The 23-year-old, who played for Premier Volleyball League team Choco Mucho, said that she made the tough decision. She will instead pursue post-graduate studies.
“Volleyball has been a big part of my life. With that said, I want to tell everyone that I am retiring na,” she said on Tuesday night’s episode of the Globally Ballin podcast.
“Kim Gequillana, signing off.
“I also thought of exploring my career outside of volleyball and I was planning to go back to school. Yes, I am applying to a school. I’ve given it enough time to just think about it and I really can’t do both since I want to do my best in both. I don’t want to juggle play halfhearted while juggling with my studies,” she continued. “With me, when I commit, I give my 100-percent. I feel na I am content na with volleyball in a way because it has brought me to the place that I have to be.
Gequillana is the most decorated product of the Ateneo women’s volleyball program. She was a member of the teams that won the UAAP seasons 76, 77, and 81 crowns.
During her stay in Ateneo – which saw the 5-foot-8 spiker play different positions – she became one of the most beloved members of the team. And for that she is grateful.
“Like what I mentioned, with all the years that I’ve been playing as a volleyball player, I wouldn’t be here without the support of the fans,” she expressed. “Even though it doesn’t show sometimes, I’m really grateful for the messages and the mentions. I really like viewing those stuff to reminisce about all the great times. It uplifts me a lot.”
Gequillana also feels thankful to know Bea De Leon, Maddie Madayag, Kat Tolentino, and many more, as they have become her family in Manila.
“Also to my teammates, I wouldn’t be here without them.
“I consider them as my family. I’m from Bacolod but I feel right at home when I’m with them. I’m thankful to my coaches for helping push me to my limits,” she continued.
As she embarks on her journey back to school, Gequillana hopes that she still gets to see everyone in the games albeit in a different capacity.
“You’ll see me around. Volleyball will always be there for me.”
