Every player, be it a veteran or a newcomer, will have to earn their spot in the Philippine men's national volleyball team through hard work, determination, and skill, under the watch of head coach Sergio Veloso.
No guaranteed spot in the Philippine men's national volleyball team for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship.
That is the stance of Nationals head coach Sergio Veloso, who aims to cultivate fierce but healthy competition among players to ensure that only the best of best would have the honor of representing the country.
"I give opportunities for all players. This is the most important [aspect]," Veloso assured.
Countless aspirants from both the amateur and pro circuits have been invited to try out for the 25-man pool, which will be assembled by Veloso, along with his reputable deputies Dante Alinsunurin and Odjie Mamon, once the ongoing leagues wrap up their respective seasons.
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From there, the pool would undergo multiple training sessions and see action in tilts, which include the SEA V-League and Asian Challenger Cup, to help coaches determine who makes the final cut for the FIVB showpiece that will commence on September 12 to 28 next year.
"Who, now in the moment, stay in good shape and play very well can stay in the national team. And this balance about new players and the senior players is important too because the opportunity not only in the World Championship but when you can play in the international level is important," the Brazilian tactician said.
Be it a veteran or a newcomer, every member of the pool will have to earn their spot. And with no assured slots in the final 14-man roster, players must elevate their game to great heights to secure their place on the team.
"This is what I call a good fight, and everybody go up when you get a good fight," Veloso said.
"Show me your best in the practice and confirm in the match."
Furthemore, Veloso understands the importance of fostering growth, development, and a culture of excellence that would benefit the national team. For this reason, he is opening up the doors for his fellow coaches to take part in training, with the aim of promoting development at all levels of the game.
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"My first week here, I asked, you have two situations. First, who wants to help the national team, I'm open. And the second, we need to split this experience for the other coach, too. Now you have Coach Dante and Coach Odjie, who is still with us. If other coaches want to see the practice or improve with us, it's open," Veloso shared.
"It's so important, not only for the national team, because we need to improve. In the FIVB development program in the world, it's a part of the program."