Alyssa Solomon may have been one of the most anticipated names in Alas Pilipinas’ roster, but interim head coach Shaq Delos Santos opted to ease the star opposite hitter into action during the team’s opening match of the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup.
Solomon did not see action in the Philippines’ dominant 25-16, 25-12, 25-14 sweep of Uzbekistan, with Delos Santos revealing that the coaching staff is taking a measured approach as the former National University standout settles into the national team setup.
“Ni-re-ready namin kasi siyempre galing siya doon sa matagal na bakasyon,” said Delos Santos.
Solomon only recently joined Alas Pilipinas after withdrawing from the 2026 PVL Draft to focus on national team duties and explore opportunities overseas.
Veterans Lead the Way in Opener
Despite her absence, the Philippines hardly missed a beat in its tournament opener.
Team captain Alyssa Valdez led the charge with 14 points and 8 excellent digs, while veteran Jovelyn Gonzaga contributed 12 points and 13 excellent digs. Niña Ytang also impressed in her Alas debut, finishing with 12 points built on 8 attacks and 4 blocks.
Ces Molina chipped in 11 points and 15 excellent digs as Alas Pilipinas completed the victory in just 68 minutes.
Delos Santos on Solomon’s Integration
For Delos Santos, the priority is ensuring Solomon is fully physically prepared while continuing to build chemistry with a squad that came together only weeks before the tournament.
“At ang good thing ay sobrang ready siyang maglaro, pero ang gusto lang namin ay mas lalo siyang ma-prepare at ’yung gelling niya sa team. Pero wala namang problema, on and off the court,” he said.
The veteran coach emphasized that roster decisions will continue to depend on match situations and team needs, noting that several players are capable of stepping up when given the opportunity.
“Pero halos lahat naman puwedeng mag-perform. May mga players tayo na alam naman nating kaya pang tumulong sa team. Ang sinasabi lang namin ay kailangan ng tulong-tulong kasi every day talaga ’yung game.”
Looking Ahead
With a winning start already secured, Alas Pilipinas now has the luxury of gradually integrating Solomon into the lineup as it continues its campaign in the continental tournament.
And if Delos Santos is to be believed, it may only be a matter of time before one of the country’s brightest volleyball stars makes her long-awaited return to the international stage.
