PLDT’s Mika Reyes in the AVC Champions League.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Mika Reyes, a former Philippine women’s national volleyball team mainstay, was thrilled to play on the international stage once again.

This time, it was more special for Reyes to represent the country with her mother club PLDT in the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Champions League.

“I think what makes it more fun this time is that it’s being held in Manila, so our family and friends can watch us live,” said Reyes in Filipino.

READ: AVC Champions League: PLDT caps dominant start for PH clubs

Mika Reyes on her return to the international stage. #AVCChampionsLeague @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/3VFrp7lj2w

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“The support we’re getting—from everyone, even fans of Creamline and Petro Gazz—it’s overwhelming. Unlike the PVL, [we were playing against each other] this just feels even more special because of that support.”

The star middle blocker shone in her first AVC tournament in a long while, dropping 11 points off nine kills, one block, and an ace for PLDT’s winning start over the Queensland Pirates of Australia, 25-19, 25-12, 25-12, in Pool D on Sunday at Philsports Arena. 

Reyes is just grateful to get a chance to play against Asian clubs to help the High Speed Hitters improve their game and even try to redeem themselves after a heartbreaking quarterfinals exit in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference.

READ: PVL: Mika Reyes’ progress adds to PLDT’s growing depth

“We’re really grateful for this opportunity, because not everyone gets a chance like this, especially since it’s the AVC. So coming into this tournament, we’re excited, especially since it feels like a second chance for us after what happened in the PVL. Just being able to join this is already a big thing for us,” she said.

The former La Salle ace last played for the national team in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games in Manila, two years after being named captain in the Kuala Lumpur edition.

Looking to make the most of this international tournament, Reyes and the High Speed Hitters face a tough test against Nakhon Ratchasima of Thailand on Tuesday.