Denso Airybees setter Jia de Guzman. Photo from Denso Airybees/Instagram
MANILA, Philippines – Celebrated setter Jia de Guzman is set to leave Denso Airybees following a two-year stint with the Japan SV.League club.
De Guzman was the last Japan-based Pinay volleyball player after Jaja Santiago and Maddie Madayag exited their respective Japanese clubs.
The team announced the development on their website.
For her part, De Guzman expressed gratitude to the team after "two seasons of trust, love and support."
"I’m really grateful to Denso, the hardworking staff, my wonderful teammates, and all our fans for 2 seasons of trust, love and support," De Guzman said.
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The PVL's eight-time Best Setter said she will cherish the growth she had during her stint with Denso, adding that she would bring her earned experiences to the country.
"Everything I’ve learned here in Denso has really helped in my growth as a person and an athlete. I will always cherish and bring it with me in my future endeavors, especially for Philippine volleyball," the acclaimed playmaker said.
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De Guzman said she will now shift her focus to Alas Pilipinas.
The national team will be joining three major competitions this year -- AVC Challenge Cup for Women, the Southeast Asian V. League, and the Southeast Asian Games.
"I will have the chance to focus on the 2025 National Team campaign of the Philippines after the SV.League season, so I thank everyone for their continued support."
She'd be with Denso before the 2024-25 season ends, as her team takes on Saitama Ageo Medics in the quarterfinals of the ongoing Japanese tilt.
"I have made lifelong friends in Japan, and I can’t wait to see all of you again in the future!" De Guzman said. "Please continue to support the Denso Airybees until the end!"
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