Entering camp with Alas, promising rookie Shaina Nitura eagerly awaits potential elevation
Manila, Philippines – Shaina Nitura, the UAAP Season 87 Women's Volleyball Rookie of the Year, will look to make the most of her opportunity as she joins the training pool of Alas Pilipinas. The 20-year-old prodigy, who was recently welcomed to the team, is set to strengthen the national team's training efforts in preparation for a string of high-profile tournaments, including the VTV Cup, the AVC Nations Cup in Vietnam, the SEA V.League in Vietnam and Thailand, and the ABC Challenge Cup for women.
Nitura began training with Alas Pilipinas last week, eager to learn from and compete alongside seasoned international volleyball players. In an interview with reporters on Friday, May 23rd, she expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and shared her excitement about working with her new teammates.
"I am truly grateful for this chance, and I've already gained valuable insights from my teammates despite not yet being named to the final roster. Their vast experience has been incredibly educational for me," Nitura remarked.
Impressed by the skill and talent of her teammates, Nitura is determined to continue learning and growing alongside them, describing each player as exceptional and uniquely talented. She has already had the opportunity to learn from Jia de Guzman, the main playmaker and Alas team captain, who has been providing guidance and support to the promising young player.
Nitura received an invitation from the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) even before cementing a historic UAAP women's volleyball rookie season, characterized by numerous records and accolades. These achievements include the most points in a game (38), the most points in a rookie debut (33), the most 30-point games (6), and the most points in a season for either division (371). Throughout her record-breaking campaign, she also gained valuable experience by working closely with veteran players such as de Guzman.
As she continues to train with Alas Pilipinas, Nitura is focused on building connections with her teammates, learning from their experience, and working on her game while under less pressure to lead. However, she remains determined and prepared for the possibility of being called upon to represent the Philippines in international competition.
"I can't say for certain how ready I am, but I am committed to working hard to improve my skills and qualify for the team," Nitura said, showing her dedication to the national team and her passion for the sport.
Alas Pilipinas's roster includes several other notable players, such as Aya La, Vanny Gandler, Tea Gagate, Maddi Madiag, Del Palomata, Julia Coronell, Mars Alba, Don Katindig, and Dia Andaya. The presence of veterans and promising newcomers fosters a competitive yet supportive environment that should aid in the development of players like Nitura ahead of international competitions.
With her impressive rookie season and leadership qualities as evidence of her potential, Nitura is quickly becoming a promising prospect for the Philippine national team moving forward.
"Nitura, inspired by the expertise of her teammates in Alas Pilipinas, hopes to apply her lessons in basketball, a sport she also admires and aspires to excel in."
"In the future, Nitura might aim to take part in NCAA-Basketball tournaments, showcasing her versatility as an athlete and her commitment to representing the Philippines in various sports."
