MANILA — Young opposite spiker Leo Ordiales is determined to make his mark as Alas Pilipinas prepares for its first-ever stint in the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship on home soil, vowing to embrace any role to help the squad in the September tournament.
The 22-year-old Bacolodnon, one of 21 players still competing for a spot in the Final 14, said he is ready to give his all whether he lands in the starting six, comes off the bench, or serves as a training partner.
“For me, it’s not about age or experience. Whatever role is given to me—whether I’m in the first six, coming off the bench, or just in training—I’ll embrace it and give my all for the team,” said Ordiales, who has been with the national pool since last year.
Ordiales recently joined the team’s training camps in Morocco, Romania, and Portugal, learning alongside seasoned national team stalwarts Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo, and Steven Rotter. He has also proven himself as a reliable spark plug off the bench in recent tune-up matches.
“I’ll just fulfill whatever role is given to me. Of course, it all starts with trust,” he said. “I trust them because they also trust me. We’re all helping each other. My only goal is to give my best, especially since we’ll be playing in front of our fellow Filipinos. Whatever happens in the world championship, I want people to leave the arena saying they were proud of how the team played.”
Standing at 6-foot-6, the National University standout is seen not only as a valuable asset in the upcoming campaign but also as a cornerstone for the program’s future.
“Of course, I’m honored because not everyone is given this kind of opportunity,” he added. “Out of the millions who play volleyball in the Philippines and the many young athletes who dream of this, I feel truly grateful to be given this chance.”
Alas Pilipinas will kick off its Pool A campaign at the SM Mall of Asia Arena against Tunisia on September 12, followed by matches against Egypt on September 16 and Iran on September 18./PN
