The "Phenom" Alyssa Valdez Back on Taraflex

For Alyssa Valdez, the journey back to competitive volleyball has been nothing short of extraordinary. After suffering a knee injury in December 2022 during the PVL Reinforced Conference, the Creamline Cool Smashers' stalwart had to sit out the subsequent All-Filipino Conference, leaving fans wondering when—or if—their star would grace the court again. Seven months later, Valdez has not only returned but has done so with the explosive form that fans have come to love.

A Stellar Comeback

Alyssa Valdez donned the pink and white jersey on November 16 at the Ynares Center Antipolo. She contributed 4 points for the team, the 3 points came from attacks and 1 from a block, scoring her first 2 points on the latter part of the first set to deliver a finisher blow. She held tightly to her belief in taking it one game at a time, especially as she experienced a nagging knee injury during the Reinforced and Invitational Conferences.

Super blessed since coming from an injury... and the feeling is different if you're included in the lineup. It was difficult for me but the coach (Sherwin Meneses) told us that it's a total team effort, so I don't feel like I am carrying something ... You just have to perform, be yourself there, and carry yourself there - Alyssa Valdez.

Valdez's influence extends beyond the statistics. Her on-court presence acts as a focal point for her supporters and raises the spirits of her colleagues. Despite the emergence of new stars in her absence, Valdez's name still bears the weight of years of leadership and brilliance in the PVL.

You know, honestly, It's just so nice to be able to feel that I am able to jump again, to spike again, to help again ... So if you're going to ask me how far [I am from my career] ... I think right now I just wanna celebrate on what I have right now, on the present, I wanna stay in the present. That's one thing that I've learned also. Be present, and celebrate small wins, stay in the present just be glad and grateful for everything that is happening right now." Valdez said after 3 set finished 25-19, 25-22, 25-16 against Petro Gazz.

A Legacy of Resilience

Valdez's steadfast attitude is what makes her comeback so noteworthy. Physically and intellectually taxing, rehabilitation is a difficult process, but she handled it with the same perseverance that has characterized her professional life. Valdez freely acknowledged the difficulties of supporting her team from the sidelines for 4 months, but she turned that annoyance into inspiration and worked hard to get ready to return.

Being on the sideline for the two conferences, I just saw how talented, amazing my teammates are that's one thing for sure. How they want to play volleyball in such a way that they're helping each other. I think from then on, and because of that as well, I realized that I have to actually enjoy the sport again, be back, and be happier than ever. Hopefully, that's the same energy that I am giving to them. - Alyssa Valdez.

She's a respected figure in volleyball and Philippine sports in general, and her return serves as a reminder of that. She keeps leading by example, whether it's motivating new athletes or exhibiting resiliency.

Looking Ahead

Although her comeback is encouraging, there are still unknowns. It's difficult to play at your best after a lengthy hiatus, but Valdez doesn't appear to be deterred. She has said she is thankful for the chance to play once again and promised to put in more effort to support her squad. Fans may anticipate seeing even more brilliant performances from the Creamline Cool Smashers skipper as the PVL season goes on.

Valdez's journey is far from over, but her story is already a testament to what can be achieved with perseverance and passion. Her return is not just about winning games; it's about inspiring a nation of volleyball fans who have long admired her commitment and love for the sport.