MANILA — Ilongga volleyball icon Abigail “Aby” Maraño has closed the curtain on a decorated 22-year career that saw her win collegiate championships, captain the Philippine national team and become one of the country’s most recognizable volleyball figures.
The 33-year-old middle blocker officially announced her retirement Wednesday night following her final stint with the Chameleons in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour Showdown.
Maraño walks away from competitive volleyball with a career spanning the collegiate, professional and international stages, highlighted by championships and years of service to the national team.
She first rose to prominence with De La Salle University, emerging as a key force in the Lady Spikers’ successful UAAP campaigns.
Maraño helped La Salle capture the UAAP women’s volleyball championships in Seasons 73 and 75, establishing herself as one of the league’s standout middle blockers.
Her success at the collegiate level eventually paved the way for a lengthy national team career, where she represented the Philippines in international competitions and later became captain of the national women’s volleyball squad.
Known for her aggressive blocking, fiery competitive spirit and vocal leadership, Maraño became a familiar presence in Philippine volleyball and a fan favorite both for her intensity on the court and leadership among her teammates.
Her professional career also saw her suit up for several prominent clubs, including the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers and Cignal HD Spikers, before eventually joining Nxled.
After more than two decades of competition, Maraño now moves on to a new chapter beyond the playing court, leaving behind a legacy built on championships, national team service and dedication to Philippine volleyball.
Maraño’s retirement closes the playing career of one of the most recognizable Ilongga athletes to make her mark on the national volleyball stage./PN
