Alas Pilipinas’ Fifi Sharma during the AVC Challenge Cup press conference.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Fifi Sharma is elated to reunite with her former La Salle teammates as they lead the Alas Pilipinas — the new era of the women’s volleyball national team — in the AVC Challenge Cup, which opens on Wednesday at Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
Despite having a short preparation, Sharma didn’t have a hard time adjusting in her first Philippine team stint as she is with her Akari teammate Faith Nisperos and former coach Jorge Souza De Brito, and most importantly, Angel Canino, Thea Gagate, and Julia Coronel, whom she shared La Salle’s UAAP championship run in Season 85 last year before she turned pro in the PVL.
“I’m super happy because this is like a reunion for us. I’ve been away from them for about a year and seeing them here in the highest level of playing here in the country is like a different feeling,” Sharma told reporters. “It’s like, ‘Wow, friendship goals!’”
READ: Fifi Sharma credits rise as top blocker to constant planning
Fifi Sharma on reuniting with her former La Salle teammates as they represent the Alas Pilipinas in the AVC Challenge Cup. @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/MAxhLWMsnq
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) May 20, 2024
Besides teaming up with her fellow Lady Spikers, the young middle blocker enjoys the company of other stars, led by veterans Jia De Guzman, Sisi Rondina, and Dawn Macandili-Catindig.
“We’re all determined and eager to give our best this tournament. I think everybody is doing the best they can to make the whole process of gelling easier for everyone,” Sharma said.
Although Alas only had a few days to prepare, Sharma seeks to make the most of her opportunity to fight for the country’s pride in front of its fans in Manila.
READ: PH national volleyball teams to be called Alas Pilipinas
“My mindset will just be enjoy every moment and make sure that I stay in the present and do whatever I can, to give my one hundred percent each and every moment that I train with the Philippine team,” she said.
Sharma and the Filipino Spikers open their Pool A campaign against Australia on Thursday. They battle India on Friday, Iran on Saturday, and Chinese Taipei on Sunday.
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.
