Coach Jorge de Brito faces the welcome challenge of selecting from a talent-stacked pool of spikers as Alas Pilipinas gears up for the SEA V.League.
Alas Pilipinas are heading into the 2025 SEA V.League with one of its deepest pools yet.
And for head coach Jorge de Brito, that’s both a blessing and a challenge. With an abundance of offensive weapons in camp, finalizing the team’s 14-player lineup is shaping up to be one of the toughest decisions he’s had to make.
Among those currently training are some of the country’s top outside hitters: Brooke Van Sickle, Angel Canino, Bella Belen, Shaina Nitura, Eya Laure, Vanie Gandler, and Alleiah Malaluan. Each brings a wealth of talent and unique strengths to the squad, making competition for spots even more intense.
“This is the kind of hard decision every coach wants,” de Brito told One Sports. “We’re just trying to make the best combination with the talented ones—the good ones, the experienced ones. It’s good, and as of now, we’re gonna start this. Tomorrow we’re going to do some tune-ups again to evaluate them as a team.”
[ALSO READ: Eya Laure anchors growing core of Alas Pilipinas after back-to-back international stints]
The Brazilian mentor is pleased with how quickly the players are adapting to the system, highlighting the strong chemistry between the attackers and setters.
“They’re doing really good. It’s amazing to see all these talented players together with good setters. The chemistry between the spikers is really good, and their connection in receiving is solid. They’re adapting really well and fast,” he noted.
[ALSO READ: Jorge de Brito reiterates role of system, chemistry in growing Alas Pilipinas program]
While expectations are high following recent international stints, de Brito remains focused on steady growth.
“The main expectation is always for us to keep on growing,” he said. “Results are a consequence of hard work. We know we have a chance to fight for bronze or even make the finals, but it’s going to be tough. This lineup is good, but we need to keep improving as a team. It’s a process, and in that process, you have to win yourself every single day.”
Alas Pilipinas will continue its tune-up games before flying to Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, on July 29 for the SEA V.League Leg 1, which will run from August 1 to 3.
The national team aims to build on the momentum of its strong performances in the AVC Women's Nations Cup and VTV Cup earlier this year.