Manila, Philippines, September 7, 2016 – Philippine volleyball star Mika Reyes visited the SMM 2016 Asian Women’s Volleyball Club Championship to support her compatriots from Foton Pilipinas and to get a taste of international air ahead of the FIVB Volleyball Women’s Club World Championship taking place in Manila from October 18 to 23.
It became very loud all of a sudden at the Alonte Sports Arena in Binan City, on the opening day of the Asian Women’s Club Championship, as the fans in the stands could not stop screaming and applauding. The reason, however, was neither an overwhelming spike nor a breath-taking block, it was Reyes entering the stadium.
The Filipino youngster sent the spectators of the Asian Women’s Club Championship into hysterics. Everybody wanted a picture with the new face of Philippine volleyball.
“I just wanted to come and support my compatriots in the Asian Women’s Club Championship. I did not expect such spectacular welcome by the fans. It is just overwhelming to know that so many people stand behind me. I am just enjoying every second with these amazing fans,” Reyes said.
To express her gratitude to her fans, the rising star of Philippines volleyball took time to take pictures with hundreds of young fans and sign autographs.
The middle blocker is convinced that her compatriots are also going to build up a huge atmosphere at the Women’s Club World Championship in just over a month’s time.
“Filipinos love Volleyball. They are going to cheer us on every second of the game. This is an incredible motivation and inspiration. I feel honoured to represent the Philippines to all these fans.”
The middle blocker is already looking forward to playing reigning titleholders Eczacibasi VitrA Istanbul.
“It’s just amazing to have the opportunity to face such an outstanding squad like Eczacibasi VitrA Istanbul. I want to cherish every moment in this competition and play my very best volleyball. I am still a young player and can learn a lot from them. Only in opportunities like this that I can grow as a player.”
Nevertheless, the big prospect of the Philippines cannot hide her nervousness ahead of the competition.
“To be honest, I get a little bit nervous every time I think about the Women’s Club World Championship. I have never played at such an important tournament before. I just feel blessed to get such a chance of a lifetime,” Reyes explained.
PSL Manila are going to start with their preparations for the pinnacle women’s club tournament starting September 15 – right after the Asian Club Championship.
Reyes and her team-mates in PSL Manila will only have a month before the Women’s Club World Championship, as they are going to face eleven-time Brazilian champs Rexona-Sesc from Rio de Janeiro in their opener at 19:30 local time on October 18.
“We do not have a lot of time to prepare as a team for the tournament. That is why we have to seize every second and give our very best not only in the games, but also in every training session because we are keen to do everything in our power to make the Philippines proud of us.”