After a volleyball journey that’s taken her from American universities to professional stints in Europe, Filipino-American setter Tia Andaya is finally turning her compass homeward — setting her sights on a new challenge in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).
Andaya, 24, is not your typical rookie. Her resume boasts a rich tapestry of international experience, including collegiate play with Gonzaga University and Central Washington University, followed by professional stints with SK Tirana in Albania and CSM Lugoj in Romania. Yet for the California-born playmaker, her next chapter on Philippine soil might just be her most meaningful yet.
Fresh off her stint with the national team, Alas Pilipinas, Andaya jumped straight into the action at the PVL Rookie Combine — and wasted no time making her mark. Despite arriving later than most due to national team commitments, she emerged as one of the top performers of the event, topping the charts in the countermovement jump (294 cm) and approach jump (307 cm), while also clocking in a swift 1.72 seconds in the 10-meter sprint — tied for fifth overall.
But beyond the numbers, what sets Andaya apart is the depth of perspective she brings to the court — a byproduct of playing across continents, from the structured system of the U.S., to the fiery passion of the European leagues, and now to the dynamic volleyball culture of the Philippines.
“Everywhere in the world has a different style of volleyball,” Andaya shared. “That gives me a little bit of an edge because I have a lot of different perspectives to bring and show.”
Her global journey hasn’t been easy. Transitioning from one volleyball culture to another required flexibility, resilience, and an open mind.
“There was a big learning curve,” she admitted. “Going from America to Europe, then now to Asia — each country had its own challenges and style. But I’ve grown a lot, and I’ll keep growing. It’s nice having that kind of background because it helps me adapt quickly.”
That adaptability was on full display at the PVL combine, where scouts and coaches alike took notice of her athleticism, skill, and poise — qualities that promise to elevate any team lucky enough to draft her.
Still, for all her international experience, Andaya enters the PVL with a grounded mindset.
“I’m not sure about my expectations, to be honest. This is a really new experience for me,” she said with a smile. “I’m super excited to see what it’s all about. From playing with the national team and the girls I’ve met here, I know the level is super good. I’m excited to see what the Philippines has to offer.”
Helping her adjust to this next chapter is a name familiar to every Filipino volleyball fan — Jia de Guzman, the eight-time PVL Best Setter and current national team mainstay. For Andaya, de Guzman has been more than just a teammate; she’s been a mentor and guiding light.
“I’ve learned a lot from Jia,” Andaya said with admiration. “She has a lot of experience, even from playing in Japan. She’s shared a unique perspective with me. More importantly, she’s really helped with my transition into the Philippine volleyball scene. It’s different, but she’s made it feel a lot easier.”
Though born and raised abroad, Andaya’s decision to embrace her Filipino roots isn’t just a career move — it’s personal. Her stint with Alas Pilipinas opened her eyes to the vibrancy of the local volleyball community and planted the seed for what would become her PVL journey.
