The Chery Tiggo Crossovers have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the new season of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) as star player and veteran outside hitter Eya Laure has officially left the franchise. Laure, a key figure for the team, has been instrumental in Chery Tiggo's success, but her departure leaves a noticeable void in their lineup.
Laure confirmed her decision through social media, where she expressed her deep gratitude to both the Chery Tiggo Crossovers and the Foton Tornadoes, the franchise she has been part of for nearly a decade. The 25-year-old took to Instagram to share several memorable photos from her time with the team, captioning them, “Forever grateful for the nine years, Foton/Chery.”
PVL | JUST IN:
— Rappler Sports (@RapplerSports) October 22, 2024
The Chery Tiggo Crossovers formally announce the release of veteran spiker EJ Laure and libero Buding Duremdes.
Interestingly absent in the post is cornerstone piece Eya Laure, who is currently in the middle of multiple contract-related rumors.#PVL2024 pic.twitter.com/2AKDCKvQDS
Her emotional farewell touched many fans who had followed her impressive journey, from her early days with the Foton Tornadoes in the now-defunct Philippine Superliga to her recent performances with Chery Tiggo in the PVL. Laure's post marked the end of an era for her at Chery Tiggo, where she had grown into one of the top volleyball talents in the country.
Eya Laure has been a standout player since her days in the UAAP, starting her collegiate volleyball career back in Season 81 with the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Tigresses. Her impact on the court was immediate, earning her the Rookie of the Year and Best Outside Hitter awards. Laure quickly became a household name in Philippine volleyball, captivating fans with her fierce play and leadership.
Laure chose to forego her final UAAP season to sign with Chery Tiggo ahead of the 2023 PVL Invitational Conference. She joined the team as part of a strong recruitment effort that included her UST teammate Imee Hernandez, and National University stars Jen Nierva, Cess Robles, and Joyme Cagande. Together, they formed a formidable squad that looked poised to make waves in the league.
During her time with Chery Tiggo, Laure made significant contributions, leading the team to back-to-back semifinal appearances in the PVL All-Filipino Conferences. However, despite their strong showings, the team finished fourth in both editions of the tournament. Laure’s relentless drive and competitive spirit earned her admiration from fans and respect from her peers.
Unfortunately, Laure did not participate in the PVL Reinforced and Invitational Conferences last year due to her commitment to Alas Pilipinas. Her absence was felt, and with her recent departure, the Crossovers will have to regroup and find a way to move forward without their star player.
One of the more intriguing aspects of Eya Laure's departure is the contract situation that could delay her return to the PVL. According to reports, Laure opted to buy out her contract with Chery Tiggo. As part of the buyout, a non-compete clause was triggered, preventing Laure from signing with another PVL team for at least one year.
This clause has added a layer of complexity to Laure’s next move, as many teams are eager to secure the services of the talented spiker. The Choco Mucho Flying Titans have emerged as one of the frontrunners, with rumors suggesting they are keen on signing Laure. If the deal materializes, it would see Laure reunited with her former UST teammate, Sisi Rondina, creating an exciting prospect for volleyball fans.
However, any potential move will have to navigate the non-compete clause. As of now, the only way for Laure to sign with another PVL club is if Chery Tiggo agrees to a buyout with the team that wants to sign her. This situation adds a level of intrigue and suspense, as the clock ticks down to the start of the 2024/25 PVL All-Filipino Conference, which is set to begin in less than a month.
With her immediate future in the PVL uncertain, Eya Laure's next step remains a topic of much speculation. Will Chery Tiggo agree to a buyout, paving the way for Laure to join another team in the PVL? Or will the outside spiker be forced to sit out for a year due to the non-compete clause?
Laure’s departure is undoubtedly a significant moment for Chery Tiggo, but it also represents a new chapter for the outside hitter. Wherever she ends up, fans will be eagerly watching her next move, as her undeniable talent and leadership qualities make her one of the most sought-after players in Philippine volleyball.
For Chery Tiggo, losing Laure means rethinking their strategy for the upcoming season. The team will have to regroup and possibly look for new talents to fill the void left by their former star player. While they still boast a talented roster, replacing a player of Laure's caliber is no easy task. The Crossovers will need to rely on their depth and team chemistry as they prepare for the next season without one of their key pillars.
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