Dell Palomata credits Alas Pilipinas teammates, coaches for AVC best middle blocker plum

Fresh off her individual recognition as the Best Middle Blocker at the recently concluded AVC Women’s Nations Cup, Alas Pilipinas’ towering presence, Dell Palomata, was quick to deflect personal glory, instead showering her teammates and coaching staff with praise for her success.

The 6-foot-3 Palomata was a linchpin in Alas Pilipinas’ historic silver-medal run in the continental championship, showcasing formidable net defense and timely attacks. Her performance earned her a spot in the tournament’s Mythical Team, a significant achievement for the rising star.

However, during a recent appearance at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum, Palomata humbly stated, “I just did my usual job as a middle blocker. I trust our coaches and whatever they ask from me, I just try to understand and deliver. I wouldn’t have been able to win this award without the help of my teammates and coaches.”

Palomata’s sentiment underscores the strong camaraderie and collective effort that defined Alas Pilipinas’ surprising and inspiring campaign. The national team, under Brazilian head coach Jorge Souza De Brito, defied expectations by reaching the AVC Nations Cup final for the first time in 64 years.

#AlasPilipinas Dell Palomata is the AVC Women’s Nations Cup 2024 Best Middle Blocker! Congratulations! #AVCNationsCup #AlasPilipinas #Volleyball pic.twitter.com/Y12LyP1hNv

— Volleytrails (@volleytrails) June 14, 2025

She particularly highlighted the support of her teammates during challenging moments. “Their help throughout the AVC tournament was huge, because sometimes I would lose my focus, and they would tell me that I can do it, I can still fight,” Palomata shared in Filipino. “That’s a big thing for me as a middle blocker.”

This emphasis on teamwork is a recurring theme within the Alas Pilipinas camp. Skipper and Best Setter awardee Jia De Guzman also consistently lauded the team’s unity and resilience. The coaching staff’s system, which effectively utilized both wing spikers and middle blockers, also played a crucial role in Palomata’s ability to shine.

Palomata was one of three Alas Pilipinas players to receive individual honors, alongside Jia De Guzman (Best Setter) and Angel Canino (Best Outside Spiker), further cementing the team’s remarkable progress on the international stage. As Philippine volleyball continues to gain momentum, Palomata’s humble leadership and dedication to her team serve as an inspiring example for aspiring athletes.

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