UP's Celis declares for PVL draft

MANILA, Philippines -- University of the Philippines Fighting Maroon Nica Celis is turning pro.

Celis, who captained the Fighting Maroons in the recently concluded UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament, has declared for the PVL rookie draft, the UP - Office for Admission and Sports Development announced Saturday.

In a statement, Celis said that she will be bringing her experience and her work ethic playing for the Maroons to the big leagues.

"The best lesson I learned throughout my years in UP is tibayan ang utak at puso. My stay has been very challenging talaga, but you really have to find the good in everything and make everything work out," she said.

"Before coming to UP, pangarap ko lang naman talaga mag-UAAP, and alam ko, I have to really work hard to get there."

Celis and the Fighting Maroons had a record of 6-8 this past season, a vast improvement from their one-win tourney back in Season 86 and two victories the year prior.

The 23-year-old acknowledged that the road will be difficult, but she voiced readiness.

"I know it won't be easy pagdating sa pro, but because I love what I do, I'm sure kaya ko rin i-conquer yung challenges doon.”

The PVL draft will be held on June 7.