Being able to play for both club and country is a doable goal for Filipina volleyball players, veteran national team player Jia de Guzman stressed, following the controversial proposed “Alas Draft”.
Last month, the Philippine National Volleyball Federation bared plans to hold an “Alas Draft”, where the national team will participate in the upcoming Philippine Volleyball League draft.
This, the PNVF said, will give the national team its own pool, but it would, supposedly, not give the players the chance to sign a professional contract.
In a series of Instagram stories, de Guzman, who has been team captain of Alas, underscored that players should not have to choose between their professional careers and a call to the flag.
“Representing the country has always meant a lot to me, and I know that same pride is shared by so many athletes — but more than that, it’s something we have a responsibility to protect and build for the generations that come after us,” she said.
“At the same time, I believe athletes should be in an environment where they can continue to grow, compete and be supported — without being put in a position where they have to choose between the national team and their careers in the league,” she added.
Morado emphasized that other countries have shown that it is possible.
“Many countries have found ways to make this work — allowing athletes to develop in both environments – and have seen the positive results and growth it brings to the sport over time. I believe that is something we can achieve as well,” she said.
“I strongly believe that we can build a system where both the national team and our local leagues can grow together — while allowing athletes to continue competing and developing in both environments,” she added.
“As these conversations continue, it’s important that we stay grounded in what truly matters – our athletes, and the future we are building for them.”
A national team stakeholder, who spoke to reporters on the condition of anonymity, earlier said that the draft would “rob opportunities to make a living by playing in a club.”
The stakeholder slammed the proposed draft, saying that it was not discussed in detail with the players.
The proposal, the stakeholder said, would “put a cap on what the players could potentially get.” It is not just the salaries, but the much-needed training and development.
The person also called the proposal a “band-aid” solution to the real issue — scheduling and calendar alignment in the country.
The PNVF, in a statement on Tuesday, said that they “remain committed to building a sustainable, inclusive and athlete-centered path forward.”
“We value the voices of our players, stakeholders and fans, and assure that we are listening,” it said.
“We invite continued dialogue and collaboration as we work together to ensure that our athletes are not only competitive on the world stage, but are also supported, heard and valued every step of the way.”
