Meet volleybelle Jaja Santiago
When she walks into a room or even steps onto the playing court, Jaja Santiago makes an imposing figure. Standing at 6’5,” she belongs to the new breed of athletes that the Philippines parades not just in domestic tournaments, but also internationally.
Slowly but surely, we are developing athletes who are not just talented but also have the physical structure that we have lacked through the years.
Height definitely is an advantage in volleyball, and as the country looks to progress in the sport, Jaja will be a major focal point.
She was instrumental in the Foton Ball Club, winning their first title in the Philippine Super Liga to end 2015, and she will be key in the team’s participation in the coming Asian Women’s Club Championship that the country will be hosting.
She started playing the sport at 13 years old, influenced by her older sister Dindin (who is 6’2”), and she expects 2016 to be a banner year for her personally and for local volleyball.
PHILIPPINE STAR: This early, you’re starting to prepare for the international event here in Manila.
JAJA SANTIAGO: Yes! I’m doing extra training/overload. I also do therapy that I need to maintain my physical strength and condition. This is important in my overall development in the sport.
What are you doing with your team?
We do our daily training. We continue to practice our plays and improve our skills that we can use in this upcoming tournament.
How do you think your team will fare against the tough competition?
I think we can keep up with them by playing with our hearts during the games and being more focused and confident in the skills and plays that we will execute during the games since we’ve practiced those during training. And of course, if we are more dedicated in representing our country against others, this will help us achieve what we set out to do.
What are your expectations for the current PSL season?
I’m expecting an exciting season! There are new players joining the league, and I know I will learn more from the veterans. I always want to continue learning so I improve.
What are your goals in the sport?
It’s very simple. I just want to gain more experience, especially having more opportunities to play with veterans locally and internationally. The international exposure will be very helpful in getting better in volleyball.
With your imposing figure, you’re expected to deliver game after game, does this put added pressure on you?
Yes! It does give me more pressure because most of the people and fans around expect me to be dominant during games. But like my coaches always tell me, “Don’t feel pressured, just play your best.”
It’s helped me focus a bit more.
I’m curious, is your height a disadvantage off the court?
No. For me, my height is always an advantage. (Smiles.)
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