MANILA, Philippines — Volleyball icon Alyssa Valdez influenced a generation of players with her love for the game, and she also inspired the first-ever Filipina Olympic rower Joanie Delgaco in her teenage years as a volleyball athlete.

Delgaco initially played volleyball during her high school at the University of the Philippines in Iriga City and shared with The Manila Times that Valdez was her volleyball idol.

Both familiar with greatness, and making histories, "The Phenom" had a message for the Olympian rower.

"Joanie, you are our idol. Keep on pushing, and whatever happens, we believe in you, whatever the result of your journey is, we are really proud of you. I can't wait to see you here in the Philippines, and watch volleyball games," Valdez told The Times.

"You are inspiring a lot of athletes, not just me. You are giving us hope, and keep pushing, you are our idol."

Delgaco dominated the repechage, and is now off to the classification round as she finished sixth in the quarterfinals earlier today.

Despite being out of the medal contention, Delgaco already made history as she was the fourth rower that represented the Philippines after Cris Nievarez (2020 Tokyo Games), Benjamin Tolentino (2000 Sydney Games) and Edgardo Maerina (1988 Seoul Games).

The Creamline star added that Delgaco served as a reminder that it is not too late to go after your dreams and to rise above setbacks.

"Wow! You know what is very evident in her whole career there is no timeline on when you can start a new career, and a new path. Even for us (volleyball players), she is an inspiration since there are times when we suffer from injuries, and that also inspired us that as long as you are passionate, you love what you are doing, and your determination is there, you always have a chance to succeed.

"Joanie thank you for the inspiration, and for giving us hope. Hope you allow us to support you in this journey."

Valdez was sidelined in the first three matches of Creamline in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) 2024 Reinforced Conference due to her minor injury.

During the AVC Challenge Cup 2024, Delgaco was in attendance supporting Alas Pilipinas in its game over Kazakhstan on May 28.

When asked who's her idol, the 26-year-old rower said that Valdez is her favorite player of all time.

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