Leila Cruz is gearing up to bring a strong learning mentality to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) as teams prepare for the league’s inaugural draft on Monday, July 8.
Cruz, determined and eager, is set to embark on her first professional volleyball stint. She aims for a complete recovery from an ACL injury that sidelined her for most of UAAP Season 85 and all of Season 86.
The 6-foot opposite spiker from La Salle shared her excitement and commitment to personal growth.
“Ang mao-offer ko is yung willingness ko to learn, especially kakabalik ko lang, alam ko sa sarili ko na marami pa rin ako dapat matutunan,” Cruz said.
Cruz's dedication to self-improvement is expected to significantly benefit whichever PVL team drafts her.
As she nears the completion of her undergraduate degree at La Salle, Cruz felt this milestone signaled her readiness to step into the professional arena.
The PVL Draft attracted 47 applicants, including Cruz’s fellow La Salle standouts Thea Gagate, Julia Coronel, and Maicah Larroza.
“Yung one main factor kung bakit ako umalis na ng DLSU is because of my studies, almost done na rin naman po with my undergraduate [degree], so I think ‘yon na po yung signal sa akin to take the next step,” she said.
Before making her decision, Cruz ensured she left on good terms with her Lady Spikers teammates and coaching staff, led by the esteemed Ramil de Jesus.
With four La Salle players moving on, Alas Pilipinas opposite spiker and UAAP Season 85 Rookie-MVP Angel Canino is set to lead La Salle’s redemption journey in the UAAP.
“Super okay naman po kasi ‘yon po talaga yung goal ko. If umalis ako, gusto ko super okay yung relationship ko po with my teammates and with my coaches, ‘yon po talaga yung pinaka inuna ko po,” Cruz said.
As Cruz steps into the professional volleyball world, her willingness to learn and grow promises to be a valuable asset to her future team and an inspiration to her fans.
