Hosting FIVB Men’s Worlds a big opportunity for PH men’s volleyball growth, says Espejo

Marck Espejo, one of Alas Pilipinas’ veterans, believes that the country’s hosting of the upcoming FIVB Men’s World Championship is a big step forward for the growth of men’s volleyball in the Philippines.

The 28-year-old outside hitter has seen it all, including the Philippines’ silver medal finish in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. Now, he will don the national colors again as the country competes on the global stage.

“It’s a huge honor and opportunity to be part of the World Championship — playing for your country feels different from playing for your club,” Espejo said in a release by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation. “I’ll make the most out of it because this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

“This is a huge opportunity, not just for me, but for the growth of men’s volleyball in the Philippines. I won’t take it for granted,” he added.

Espejo, who recently recovered from an injury, has been catching up with the national team’s training in Portugal. He said he Is taking things day by day and focusing fully on their preparations for the World Championship.

“I will take this challenge seriously and give my very best,” he said. “But I’m excited. Right now, we’re focused on bringing out the team’s full potential. We’re enjoying the camp, playing against top teams, and learning a lot.”

The Philippines will compete alongside 31 other teams in the FIVB Men’s World Championship, which runs from September 12 to 28.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News