Steven Rotter gave some clarity on his shock exclusion from Alas Pilipinas' final 14 squad for the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship.
Steven Rotter was still all smiles as he made his way around the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City ahead of Alas Pilipinas’ opening match against Tunisia in the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship.
The Fil-Am spiker was a surprise drop from the Final 14 roster for the World Championship, but Rotter himself made it clear it wasn’t because of performance issues.
Rotter explained that his absence from the lineup stemmed from technicalities involving his eligibility.
“I’m still associated with USA Volleyball, so I have to change federations. I have to get that done so I can play in the SEA Games. People thought I got cut, it’s not that. It’s just technical things,” Rotter shared with reporters.
Focused on SEA Games
The 25-year-old opposite hitter had been a mainstay for the national team in several international tournaments, including the SEA V.League, AVC, and Asian Games.
The FIVB, however, is much stricter with its regulations, especially for the World Championship.
Steven Rotter suited up for Alas Pilipinas during its three-day Invitational last June. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
While disappointed, Rotter emphasized that he remains optimistic about finalizing his transfer in time for future international competitions, most notably the 2025 Southeast Asian Games.
“It’s just resources I have that hopefully can expedite it fast enough, where I can play in the SEA Games. I’m very optimistic and very positive, even though right now it’s kind of a bad feeling, but it is what it is,” he added.
[ALSO READ: Steven Rotter relishes chance to represent Filipino roots at FIVB World Championship]
Full support ahead
Despite being sidelined, Rotter vowed to support the national team from the stands as they embark on their historic World Championship debut on home soil.
“I’m very excited for them. It sucks that I can’t be a part of the roster, but it is what it is. I’m here to cheer on my team, and hopefully, at the end of the day, we’ll win this game,” he said.
Rotter also expressed confidence in his teammates’ ability to rise to the challenge after a grueling training camp in Europe.
“We played against top-notch talent, all taller than us. Height shouldn’t be a factor right now; it’s just whoever plays smarter and whoever plays more consistent. But right now, we are very prepared for whatever is coming at us, even though I’m not a part of it,” Rotter added.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.