Veteran setter Rubie de Leon joins Sta. Lucia coaching staff

Seasoned playmaker Rubie de Leon has opened a new chapter in her volleyball career as she joins the coaching staff of Sta. Lucia in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).

The Lady Realtors on Wednesday said that de Leon will still be part of the bench, this time as an assistant coach, after her stint as the team's setter for years now.

"The team is adjusting. We are going to try a new strategy along with the coaching staff. With this, I think I can contribute more in guiding the team, especially the setters," de Leon said.

The grizzled player, though, clarified that she isn't hanging her jersey yet but is only recuperating from a minor injury that would bar her from doing heavy training.

"I wouldn't say it's retirement. More on recalibration. Rest and observe while at the same time helping Sta. Lucia as one of the coaches. I am not yet ready for retirement," she said.

De Leon will join newly-minted head coach Edgar Barroga in steering the Lady Realtors, who finished fifth in the previous Open Conference with a 5-4 card.

"If I ever retire, I want it to be on my own terms," she said. "But I will take my time."

—Bea Micaller/MGP, GMA News