Women's national volleyball tryouts begin sans other big names

MANILA, Philippines – The national women’s volleyball team tryouts were done Wednesday in Subic minus some of the country’s biggest stars headed by Alyssa Valdez.

Jaja Santiago, who made a name playing as an import for Ageo Medics in the Japan V.League, paced the attendees along with Aby Marano, Majoy Baron, Mylene Paat and Eya Laure.

Also in attendance were Iris Tolenada, Ria Meneses and Dell Palomata, and college players Kamille Cal, Michaela Belen, Ivy Lacsina, Alyssa Solomon, Jennifer Nierva, Faith Nisperos, Imee Hernandez and Bernadette Pepito.

Valdez, along with Creamline teammate Jia Morado, and other Premier Volleyball League invitees Myla Pablo, Denden Lazaro, Kat Tolentino, Kim Fajardo, Dawn Macandili and Risa Sato among others begged off due to health reasons.

Kalei Mau did not join because she is scheduled to play in the Puerto Rico league while Jovelyn Gonzaga has begged off last week due to personal reasons.

The players that will be selected to comprise the national squad will see action in the 31st Southeast Asian Games set November 21 to December 2 in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Meanwhile, the men’s tryout is set Thursday while those seeking slots for the men’s and women’s beach volley squad is scheduled Friday.