Alas Pilipinas created history by capturing the bronze medal in the opening match of the 2024 Southeast Asian Volleyball League. This was a watershed moment for the Philippine women's volleyball national team. The team hadn't finished in the top three for five years. The victory has given volleyball enthusiasts around the country renewed optimism and energy. To earn the bronze medal the squad had to end a two-year-long 11-game losing streak. This demonstrates how strong and determined they are.
Alas Pilipinas triumphed over Indonesia in a bronze medal match, denying their opponents a fourth consecutive bronze medal in the competition. This victory was particularly sweet as it ended a challenging period for the team, which had not secured a medal in the SEA Volleyball League since 2019. The win was a collective effort but two players in particular, stood out and were recognized for their exceptional performances of Jia de Guzman and Thea Gagate.
SEA Vleague Awardees
— bp (@blackerpink) August 4, 2024
Middle Blocker: Thea Gagate
Setter: Jia De Guzman pic.twitter.com/KEF5QLLklr
Jia de Guzman, the team captain of Alas Pilipinas, was instrumental in their success. Her remarkable playmaking ability earned her the renowned Best Setter award, establishing her as one of Southeast Asia's finest setters. This was not De Guzman's first honor; earlier this year, she was named Best Setter in the AVC Challenge Cup, when she helped the Philippines win a historic bronze medal, ending a 63-year medal drought in AVC events.
De Guzman’s performance in the SEA Volleyball League was nothing short of outstanding. Her ability to read the game, make quick decisions, and deliver precise sets under pressure were crucial to her team’s success. As a setter, De Guzman is responsible for orchestrating the team’s offense, and she did so with remarkable skill and composure. Her leadership on the court was evident as she guided her teammates through challenging moments, ensuring that they stayed focused and executed their plays effectively.
In the bronze medal match against Indonesia, De Guzman’s setting was instrumental in allowing the team’s hitters to shine. Her quick sets and accurate ball distribution kept the Indonesian defense on their toes, making it difficult for them to anticipate the next move. This level of playmaking is what sets De Guzman apart as one of the best setters in the region, and her recognition as the Best Setter is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and talent.
Another standout player from Alas Pilipinas was Thea Gagate, who was named the Best Middle Blocker of the tournament. Gagate’s performance in the competition was nothing short of spectacular, as she showcased her defensive prowess and ability to dominate at the net. This recognition was particularly significant as it marked the first time a Filipino player had won the Best Middle Blocker award since Majoy Baron in 2019.
Gagate’s journey to becoming one of Southeast Asia’s top middle blockers has been marked by her exceptional skills, physical attributes, and a deep understanding of the game. Standing tall at 6'2", Gagate’s height gives her a natural advantage at the net, but it is her timing, agility, and quick reflexes that truly set her apart. Throughout the tournament, Gagate consistently delivered strong performances, making key blocks that were crucial in her team’s defensive strategy.
In their opening match against Vietnam, Gagate recorded three blocks, showcasing her ability to read the opponent’s attacks and react swiftly. However, it was in the bronze medal match against Indonesia where she truly made her mark, contributing three crucial blocks that helped secure the victory for Alas Pilipinas. Her performance not only earned her the Best Middle Blocker award but also solidified her reputation as one of the most promising middle blockers in the region.
Gagate’s impact goes beyond her blocking abilities. Her presence at the net creates a psychological advantage for her team, as opponents are often forced to adjust their attacking strategies to avoid her. This ability to influence the game on both ends of the court makes Gagate an invaluable asset to Alas Pilipinas, and her recognition as the Best Middle Blocker is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her talent and contributions.
The recognition of Jia de Guzman and Thea Gagate in the SEA Volleyball League is a continuation of the Philippines’ rich tradition of producing top volleyball talents. They join an illustrious list of Filipino players who have excelled on the international stage, including Majoy Baron, who won the Best Middle Blocker award in 2019, and Dawn Macandili-Catindig, who was named Best Libero in the same year.
These athletes serve as role models for aspiring volleyball players in the Philippines, inspiring the next generation to strive for excellence. The success of De Guzman and Gagate highlights the importance of nurturing and developing talent at all levels of the sport. Their achievements are a testament to the potential of Philippine volleyball and the bright future that lies ahead.
With the first leg of the SEA Volleyball League behind them, Alas Pilipinas and head coach Jorge Souza de Brito are already preparing for the second leg of the competition, scheduled to take place from August 9 to 11 in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. The bronze medal finish has undoubtedly boosted the team’s confidence, but they know that there is still much work to be done.
Coach Souza de Brito, who has been instrumental in the team’s development, will focus on building on the momentum from their recent success. The team will need to refine their strategies, address any weaknesses, and continue to build their chemistry on the court. With Jia de Guzman and Thea Gagate leading the charge, Alas Pilipinas will be aiming for an even better performance in the next leg of the tournament.
The achievements of Jia de Guzman and Thea Gagate in the SEA Volleyball League are a proud moment for the Philippines and a testament to the talent and dedication of these two exceptional athletes. As they continue to excel on the international stage, they serve as role models for the next generation of volleyball players in the country. With the second leg of the competition on the horizon, the future looks bright for Alas Pilipinas, and fans can look forward to more thrilling performances from this talented team.
As excitement builds for the second leg of the SEA Volleyball League, fans and sports enthusiasts can stay updated with all the latest news and developments by visiting OKBET, Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports betting platform. Whether you’re a volleyball fan or follow other sports, OKBET provides comprehensive coverage and updates, ensuring that you never miss a moment of the action.
Sign up today to stay informed and be part of a growing community of sports enthusiasts who are passionate about their favorite teams and athletes.
