Youngest PVL Rookie Draft aspirant Mary Angela Jackson during the combine. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — At just 20 years old, Mary Angela Jackson is ready to chase her pro volleyball dream by joining the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft.

Despite not having played in any of the top collegiate leagues, Jackson and her mentor mapped out a plan for her to go pro right after high school at the University of the Philippines Integrated School.

FULL LIST: 2025 PVL Rookie Draft Aspirants

“My mentor and I actually planned for me to go straight to the pros right after high school. But by the time I graduated, the PVL introduced a 21-year-old age limit,” Jackson told reporters in Filipino.

“Now, with the draft, the process feels more organized and straightforward. Since I’m about to turn 21 anyway, I felt like this was the right time to go for it. I guess the biggest benefit is the exposure. If you get the chance to be lined up with a team, it’s a great opportunity. Of course, nothing’s guaranteed, but just being part of the process already means a lot.”

Youngest PVL Rookie Draft aspirant Mary Angela Jackson during the combine.

The 5-foot-9 opposite spiker, who was part of the University of Santo Tomas training pool, admitted there’s anxiety in competing with more seasoned and older rookies, but she’s using it as motivation to match their level.

“It’s really a mix of pros and cons. It’ll be the same in the pros in some ways, but at the same time, I feel like the players there are more experienced. So for me, joining the pros might help me reach a higher level faster compared to going through the UAAP,” said Jackson.

“Not saying you can’t grow in the UAAP, but I feel like I have a better shot at getting to where I want to be by going pro. It’s also a great opportunity, especially for those who don’t get much exposure in the UAAP. It gives them, and me, a chance to showcase what we can do.”

For Jackson, entering the draft is already a win, gaining valuable exposure from the two-day combine and pro team workouts—whether or not she gets picked.

Believing that age is just a number, Jackson offers her net defense and work ethic to any team that could use her youthful energy.

“I’m confident in my blocking skills. I’m also very hardworking, and I’ll give everything I can to meet whatever expectations are set for me. I’ll work really hard to reach the level that’s expected in the PVL,” Jackson said.