Volleyball fans sacrificed live seats at the Mall of Asia Arena just to secure once-in-a-lifetime encounters with their idols at the FIVB Men's World Championship fan zone.
In a tournament where every match feels like a Final, some volleyball fans are proving that the action outside the court can be just as unforgettable.
Two hours before the much-anticipated 8:00 p.m. quarterfinal clash between Bulgaria and Team USA at the Mall of Asia Arena, fans had already staked out their spots at the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship fan zone, eager for a rare chance to get up close with their volleyball idols.
For many, the decision was quite easy — skip the live game inside the arena and have an opportunity to interact with their favorite volleyball stars.
Once-in-a-lifetime
For Daphne Galleguez, a die-hard Bulgaria supporter, the choice was clear.
“‘Yung game, you can replay it, but the fan zone experience, hindi na po siya makuulit, so, handa akong mag-risk dito,” she said.
“Very great experience kasi not only do we get the chance to see the players, we also get the chance to have friends who also support the same game.”
Daphne Galleguez and her friends arrive early for a good spot in the FIVB MWCH fan zone. | Photo: LJ Abadinas/One Sports
Choosing autographs over live action
The FIVB Men’s World Championship fan zone has become a hotspot for volleyball enthusiasts looking for more than just the on-court action.
For others, like Team USA fan Zeke Dela Cruz, the fan zone meant access that a ticketed seat couldn’t promise.
“Given na chance naman na very fan favorite ang US and Bulgaria, so miss the chance na mameet sila and makapagpa-autograph na din, so ni-risk na namin na di manood ng live sa arena mismo,” he said.
Fans camp out early at the FIVB MWCH fan zone ahead of the Bulgaria-Team USA quarterfinal duel. | Photo: LJ Abadinas/One Sports
Instead, Dela Cruz and friends opted to catch the game through the Pilipinas Live app while securing their spot outside.
“So, we’re gonna watch na lang sa Pilipinas Live app, so para after the game, naka-barricade, secure na kami. So, yeah, more chances na makapagpa-feature and magpapirma na din,” he explained.
The sacrifice of fandom
For these fans, the trade-off was worth it.
“Talagang kailangan naming magpili ng isa talaga kasi hindi kakayanin,” Dela Cruz added. “If we’re gonna watch dun sa arena, then bababa kami, so wala na, wala kaming makikita. Sa likod na kami. So, ganun talaga, sacrifice para sa kanila.”
Whether through selfies, signed jerseys, or simply the thrill of seeing their heroes walk past, the fan zone became the stage for memories that no broadcast replay could capture.
And on a night when Bulgaria and Team USA waged war on the court, another battle was won outside—by the fans who proved just how far they’re willing to go for their love of the game.
(With reports by LJ Abadinas/One Sports)
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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.